On the evening of Saturday, 5 July 2025, the South African State Theatre in Pretoria was transformed into a grand stage of celebration and reverence as it played host to the Van Toeka Af Tribute Concert—a magnificent event dedicated to honouring the extraordinary 68-year career of the legendary Mama Abigail Kubeka.
At 85 years old, Abigail Kubeka stands as a towering figure in South Africa’s cultural history—a living archive of the nation’s artistic memory. Discovered as a teenager by the iconic Miriam Makeba and a former member of the Skylarks, Kubeka’s voice and artistry have been a beacon of resistance, hope, and healing through decades marked by struggle and transformation.
The tribute concert was a spectacular showcase of South African talent, directed by the acclaimed Khaya Mahlangu. More than 25 legendary performers graced the stage, including luminaries such as Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Faith Kekana, Mandisa Dlanga, Khanyo Maphumulo, and Stella Khumalo. The evening opened with stirring performances by Zenzi Makeba Lee alongside the renowned Miriam Makeba Band, setting a tone of deep respect and celebration.
This event was part of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, a programme launched in 2023 to honour cultural giants while they can still “smell their flowers.” It underscores the importance of recognising and preserving South Africa’s rich artistic heritage and supporting artists through initiatives like the Living Legends Legacy Fraternity Trust (LLLFT).
Abigail Kubeka’s impact transcends performance; she is a mentor, a cultural custodian, and a symbol of resilience. Her music sustained the spirit of liberation during apartheid, a fact poignantly recalled when Nelson Mandela himself acknowledged that her songs “kept us alive” during those dark times.
The tribute concert was not only a celebration of Kubeka’s illustrious past but also a national moment of reflection on the cultural journey South Africa has undertaken. It reminded audiences that the country’s greatest treasures are its artists, whose work continues to inspire new generations.
In a heartfelt gesture, Minister Gayton McKenzie also proposed funding for Kubeka’s retirement, recognising the debt owed to her by the nation and affirming the value of supporting artists beyond their active careers.
For anyone passionate about South African culture, the Van Toeka Af tribute to Mama Abigail Kubeka was a stirring reminder of the power of music and art to shape identity, preserve history, and inspire hope. It was a night where the soul of the nation was celebrated through the voice of one of its most cherished daughters.
Mama Abigail Kubeka’s legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit of South African art and the vital role artists play in shaping the nation’s soul.
