Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Sipho Mabuse, and more to honour Abigail Kubheka in one-night-only concert

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, under the banner of the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, will host a powerful tribute concert in honour of Mama Abigail Kubheka, celebrating her 68 years of excellence in the South African music, arts, and cultural industry.

Taking place on Friday, July 5, 2025, at 18:00 at the State Theatre in Pretoria, this one-night-only event brings together over 25 legendary performers, all of whom have volunteered their time and talent to celebrate a woman whose voice, presence, and resilience have helped shape South Africa’s cultural identity.

The concert is directed by Khaya Mahlangu, with performances from celebrated artists such as Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Faith Kekana, Mandisa Dlanga, Khanyo Maphumulo, and Stella Khumalo. Audiences can also look forward to musical contributions from Sipho Mabuse, McCoy Mrubata, Babsy Mlangeni, Stompie Manana, Fana Zulu, and many more, alongside an opening performance by Zenzi Makeba Lee and the Miriam Makeba Band.

Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, will deliver remarks at the event. Speaking to IOL, ahead of the celebration, Mabe explained that honouring Kubeka was not only timely but necessary.

“As we reflect on 30 years of democracy, we must acknowledge those artists who carried the soul of our nation through song, performance, and unwavering resilience during some of our darkest and most hopeful times. 

“Mama Abigail represents the bridge between our past and present. In this moment when we are reimagining our future, it is vital to celebrate those who laid the cultural and moral foundations upon which we build.”

The celebration forms part of the Department’s growing commitment to “give them flowers while they can still smell them”, a central principle of the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, an initiative launched in 2023 to honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to South Africa’s arts and cultural heritage. 

Mabe shared that since the series launched, the department has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from artists, cultural institutions and the broader creative community.

“Many have said it restores dignity and gives artists a sense of belonging to a national story. 

“Going forward, we envision the programme expanding into other art forms, and digital platforms so that these tributes are not one-night events, but ongoing learning and inspiration tools for the whole country,” said Mabe.

This tribute follows in the footsteps of similar honours bestowed on legends such as Dr John Kani and Dr Tete Mbambisa. 

By honouring these legends, the department aims to send a message to the current and next generation of creatives that they are seen.

“We value not only your talent, but your contribution to shaping our identity, challenging injustice, and inspiring hope.

“The Department wants young creatives to know that their work matters and that a nation that honours its past creates a fertile ground for its future. We are building a culture where excellence, courage, and authenticity are recognised and celebrated.”

The Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series not only acknowledges an artist’s legacy but also provides tangible support through platforms such as the Living Legends Legacy Fraternity Trust (LLLFT).

Mabe explained that the Living Legends Legacy Fraternity Trust offers a range of support, including mentorship and masterclass opportunities, as well as wellness and financial assistance initiatives. 

“Beyond symbolic recognition, we are committed to ensuring that our legends continue to contribute meaningfully to the sector, while also receiving the care and respect they deserve. 

“This includes facilitating partnerships, creating income-generating opportunities, and offering platforms for legends to share their knowledge with the next generation.”

The department is working in partnership with broadcasters, museums, and digital heritage platforms to help document, archive, and share the nation’s cultural history.

“It’s not enough to host an event; we are focused on recording performances, creating educational materials, and making sure these histories are accessible to young South Africans, so that Mama Abigail’s legacy and those of other icons live on in classrooms, community halls, and homes.”

These recognition events are not only emotional homecomings for the artists being celebrated, but also national moments of reflection on where we’ve come from, who we are, and the kind of cultural future we wish to build.

IOL Entertainment