The people of Ga-Mashashane, outside Polokwane, in Limpopo, have paid a moving tribute to jazz musician and freedom fighter, Jonas Gwangwa.
Although he was born in Thokoza, Gauteng, the skillful trombonist had his roots in the village.
Gwangwa died on Saturday at the age of 83.
A Jonas Gwangwa classic titled Ga-Mashashane pays homage to his rocky ancestral village located just outside Polokwane.
Locals say the jazz legend often visited the village and was always present during functions that were organised by the local tribal authority.
Remembering internationally renowned SA jazz legend Jonas Gwangwa
Gwangwa’s friend, Makgosi Tlakane Mashashane, describes him as humble, hard-working and intelligent.
“I will remember the love that he had for the people of this village. He used to attend events in the village. Unlike other successful people, Gwangwa was proud of his roots. He did not shy away from the fact that he hailed from a rural village,” says Mashashane.
Locals say that Gwangwa was an inspiration and have praised his attachment to the village.
“I personally don’t know Jonas Gwangwa, but I would see him whenever he was in the village. He has inspired us that with hard work. Anything is possible; it does not matter where you come from,” says a local.
“Many people from destitute families have been able to achieve a lot by looking up to him. I love his music. It is inspirational,” says another local.
Gwangwa died 17 days after the passing of his wife, Violet.
Sipho Hotstix Mabuse pays tribute to the late jazz great Jonas Gwangwa:
