Disabled government official becomes a joint winner of South African Music Awards (SAMA)

The Minister for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya congratulates the employee of her department, Benny Palime for his contribution to the album that was declared the Best Alternative Music Album (African) at the South African Music Awards at the weekend.

Palime jointly recorded an album entitled: Unchained with popular musician Joe Nina. He recorded three songs in the award-winning album where he sings with Joe Nina.

Palime, who is blind, is a director in the disability branch of the Department for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities.

“I would like to congratulate Benny Palime for receiving such a high recognition in the South African music industry. This is a great personal achievement and it should serve as an inspiration to other people with disability to follow their passion,” said Minister Mayende-Sibiya.

Palime has been a professional singer for many years and recorded his first album in 2000 with the group Bekezela. He has worked with various popular musicians including the two blind South African music legends, Babsy Mlangeni and Steve Kekana.

Since 1997, Palime headed the office of the rights of persons with disabilities in the Presidency which has now been incorporated into the Department for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities.

Enquiries:
Sibani Mngadi
Cell: 082 772 0161

Issued by: Department of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities
19 April 2010

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