Top SA artists to perform at refugee charity concert

The event will coincide with the United Nations’ World Refugee Day on 20 June to commemorate the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees.

Confirmed acts include Pops Mohamed, Sibongile Khumalo and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. They will be joined by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and Buskaid as well local poet and playwright Gcina Mhlophe. The event will also feature a photography exhibition and video presentation that capture the stories of refugees with a particular focus on women and children.

“We are honoured to have such incredible musicians taking part in the concert and are calling on South Africans to enjoy a very special evening of music that’s devoted to one of the most urgent crises facing the world today,” THI executive director Ayhan Cetin said.

To spearhead this concert, THI partnered the following organisations Music In Africa Foundation, Southern African Music Rights Organisation, Universal Rights Association, Horizon Education Trust, Time to Care SA, South African Human Rights Commission, Buskaid, Nelson Mandela Foundation and Wits University.

“We are gratified that so many organisations and artists have answered the call to highlight the plight of refugees this World Refugee Day,” Cetin said. “This is chance for the public to show that they stand with refugees globally and here in South Africa. We assure music lovers of an extraordinary experience that will remain in their memories for many years to come as well as a deeper understanding of the situation and difficulties suffered by refugees.”

THI public relations manager Davut Işık told Music In Africa that the event was intended to “encourage and facilitate exchange of views and experiences between different parts of the society and engage in activities that are aimed at stimulating critical thinking and analysis of affairs affecting the lives of all people.

“This year, the day also marks a key moment for the public to show support for families forced to flee and the upcoming concert provides an excellent opportunity for South Africans to stand with refugees”.

Işık said the event will no doubt positively impact on lives of refugees by supporting them through “programmes with money collected from ticket sales. It is also aimed to contribute to social cohesion against xenophobic attacks in South Africa.”

Besides music, Işık said his organisation is running language classes for refugees and other forcibly displaced people.

In a statement, THI said: “The upcoming concert at the Linder Auditorium provides an excellent opportunity for South Africans to stand with refugees. All profits from the event will go directly to providing service and support to refugees and other forcibly displaced people in South Africa.”

For more information about this event, visit the THI official website. To be part of this memorable night of music and compassion, concert goers can purchase tickets via Webtickets or Shoprite/Checkers outlets for R200.