Amidst the chorus of heartfelt tributes and an outpouring of grief, the memorial service for legendary gospel star Dr Kenny Makweng encountered an unforeseen challenge — a bout of loadshedding at Akasia Community Hall in Pretoria.
Loadshedding strikes at Dr Kenny Makweng memorial service
As the service commenced to honour the life and legacy of the Ke Mosione hitmaker, who passed away following a short illness at the age of 51, attendees found themselves enveloped in darkness due to loadshedding.
The unexpected power cut, symptomatic of South Africa’s ongoing electricity crisis, brought a momentary pause to the proceedings.
However, the spirit of resilience and unity among the mourners transformed the moment into a poignant symbol of their collective strength.
Advocate Mphafolane Koma, the family’s spokesperson, had earlier noted that preparations for the service were complete and a large turnout was expected to pay respects to Dr Makweng.
The service, which was filled with emotional tributes and songs, saw many fellow artists and fans conveying their condolences and sharing memories.
Thulani Mthimunye, a long-time friend and backing vocalist, expressed his disbelief and sorrow, saying,
“It’s now that I’m realising that it’s true you are gone, my friend, Dr Kenny Makweng.”
Dr Winnie Mashaba, a multi-award-winning gospel artist, took to social media to extend her condolences, urging people to celebrate Makweng’s life without limitations. “Malome Kenny was for all of us through music,” she wrote.
Dr Kenny Makweng’s journey in gospel music began in 1987 as a founding member of the Mabopane-based Nkosana and Stocks and Stocks gospel choir.
After a brief hiatus following his father’s passing in 1994, he returned to music in 1997 with the album Eloyi Lamasabakathane with Masogana A Kgotso.
Throughout his 27-year career, he collaborated with giants of the genre, including the late Oleseng Shuping and Nkosana, and formed groups like Bafana Ba Mmino and Kenny with Friends.
Dr Makweng, a staunch member of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), passed away after suffering a stroke on 31 December 2023 and remained in a critical condition in the hospital until his passing.
His work in the gospel genre, originating from within the ZCC church, left an indelible mark on the music industry and his fans.
Makweng’s funeral service is scheduled to take place on Sunday in Mpumalanga, with the burial in Keerom.