Boom Shaka Honoured at Basha Uhuru Festival for Musical Legacy

JOHANNESBURG — 14 September 2025

The 13th annual Basha Uhuru festival celebrated Johannesburg’s creative spirit at Constitutional Hill this past Saturday, honouring kwaito pioneers Boom Shaka. Artists like Khuli Chana and Pabi Cooper energized crowds at the event themed “Celebrating the Legacy of Creative Expression”, featuring fashion shows and local cuisine.

Legendary group Boom Shaka received the Freedom Legacy Award for reshaping South African music since the 1990s. Members Theo, Thembi Seete, the late Lebo Mathosa and Junior Sokhela delivered electrifying performances of classics including “Thobela” and “It’s About Time”.

Thembi Seete expressed surprise about the recognition: “Every time we are honoured or appreciated, I feel surprised. When we started, we never imagined we’d be celebrated like this,” (The Citizen interview). She later shared on Instagram: “Happy Sunday! Last night was unforgettable at the @bashauhuru Sounds of Freedom Music Festival. We are truly honoured to have received the Freedom Legacy Award. It was a beautiful celebration of music, art, and the spirit of freedom!”

Other performers including Lamiez Holworthy, Admiral and Jahseed kept audiences engaged throughout the day. The festival reaffirmed its role in amplifying South Africa’s creative voices through music and cultural expression.