Mbixane’s passing a great loss
The Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture has learned with great sadness of the untimely passing of radio presenter Saba Mbixane. His passing has robbed the country of one of pioneers of traditional music broadcasting.
The Committee mourns his death more so because of the continuing marginalisation of traditional and South African music by a majority of the country’s broadcasters. “His immense contribution to the growth of traditional music will be felt for some time to come. It is through his love for all things South African that has sustained his career in broadcasting for this many years,” said Ms Xoliswa Tom, the Chairperson of the Committee.
The Committee is of the view that Mr Mbixane’s passing should galvanise South African broadcasters to playing more home brewed music thereby stimulating economic activity through the arts. “I believe this is the greatest legacy that Saba left and it is upon those left to pick up the baton and continue,” Ms Tom emphasised.
The Committee extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mbixane family and hope they find solace in the fact that his was a life well lived. The pain of his passing is felt by all South Africans who got the chance to know him through his show.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Malatswa Evans Molepo (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 073 297 1914
E-mail: mmolepo@parliament.gov.za
