JAZZ legend Slyvia Ncediwe Mdunyelwa was laid to rest in Cape Town on Saturday, 2 September, after she passed away last week.
Mdunyelwa, who started singing in the early 70’s, passed away at 74 on 25 August.
The funeral was attended by Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa, Leonard Ramatlakane and other dignitaries.
Kodwa said Mdunyelwa was one of the top breeds of artists in South Africa whose music contributed to shaping the social discourse of Mzansi.
“Her departure marks the end of a generation. These are the people who understood the role of music. They didn’t just sing so that people could dance.
"They used music to communicate a message. I don’t think we have celebrated and acknowledged the role of artists in this country, that includes musicians. I don’t think we have done so. We are trying to do so now, but I don’t think we have acknowledged their role in building a country,” said Kodwa.
Mdunyelwa’s sister-in-law, Yolisa Kobus, said the deceased and her brother, Kwezi Kobus, were always together.
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“There were like two peas in a pod, where you see the one, not far behind you see the other. They were totally devoted to each other. And my brother Kwezi committed himself fully to this union. She was also devoted to our family as well, and she was a friend. She had an open heart, she was generous of spirit and didn’t think twice of giving her last cent to anyone in need,” said Yolisa.
Sergeant Nonkosi Mapukatha from Langa SAPS, responsible for the Victim Friendly Room, said she worked closely with Mdunyelwa.
She said when she had activities that required her to speak to young girls in schools, Mdunyelwa was her go-to place.
“She worked so hard for this community. She would leave her own programs to come and speak to young people. She wanted to see a positive change in Langa,” Nonkosi said.
Kodwa said it was unfortunate that Mdunyelwa passed away while they were about to honour her.
Mdunyelwa was laid to rest at Langa cemetery.
