On Tuesday morning, the Durban University of Technology proudly bestowed an Honorary Doctorate in Arts and Design to the legendary Professor Joseph Shabalala, Founder and Leader of the Grammy-award winning Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

The Honorary Doctorate was conferred in Durban’s Steve Biko Campus during the University’s graduation ceremonies in recognition of Prof Shabalala’s contribution to the arts.

After taking the stage and receiving his honorary doctorate, Mshengu (Prof Shabalala’s clan name) was joined by his sons and other members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo and sung the hit song “Homeless”, much to the crowd’s delight who stood on their feet, sang along and ululated in sheer excitement.

Prof Shabalala’s contribution to the arts began at the tender age of 12. Ladysmith Black Mambazo specialises in Isicathamiya (a traditional Zulu choral music that derived the singings of men who worked in South African gold mines during apartheid). In its music, the group sends out messages using soaring bass, alto and tenor harmonies.

In accepting his honorary honorary doctorate, the speechless Prof Shabalala said he was honoured and privileged to share such moments with Africa and its children. “This is not just Shabalala but Africa. I am privileged to share this moment with you,” he said.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has won a number of awards, both nationally and internationally. Over the years, the group has represented the country in countries all over the world, singing music that encourages unity. Today, the group uses its music to alleviate social ills facing South Africa.

Sibongiseni Shabalala, Prof Shabalala’s son and spokesman of the band spoke out against the recent xenophobic violence, saying it (xenophobia) was a shameful stain on the country. “It shames us as Ladysmith Black Mambazo to see how South Africans are fighting other Africans. This type of behaviour creates a very bad picture for South Africa. We have always encouraged peace and harmony through our music (Ladysmith Black Mambazo). We are all Africans, we are one family and xenophobia must stop,” he said.

On Thursday, 23 April 2015, at 14h00, the University will confer an Honorary Doctorate on Dr Richard Maponya, Maponya Group Chairman. The Honorary Doctorate will be in recognition of Dr Maponya’s contribution to SA’s business sector.

– Noxolo Memela

Pictured: Professor Joseph Shabalala, speaks after conferment of his honorary doctorate. Next to him is Professor Ahmed Bawa, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of DUT.