The new album by the late Mkhukhu icon Solly Moholo, who fell ill while promoting it in Botswana, will be released on Friday. This was announced by his son Thabang Molokoane and his management team earlier today at a media briefing in Soshanguve.

HONOURING HIM

His manager, Gladness Thobakgale, told journalists that the gospel artist's album titled Wubani o zo Pepeza will be officially released on Friday as per his family's request. This, according to Thobakgale, is to honour him, as he was done recording the 13-song album. His son Thabang said that they decided to release his father's album to preserve his legacy. "Moholo recorded and completed his last album. To honour his final wish, the family would like the album release to continue. We are going to make sure his legacy lives forever," Thabang added.

CONDOLENCES FROM THE PRESIDENT

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences after the passing of the gospel giant. Moholo (65) whose real name is Solomon Majafela Molokoane, died last week after falling ill in Botswana in August while he was promoting his album. Ramaphosa said: "I offer my deep condolences to the Molokoane family on the passing of our beloved gospel icon Solomon Molokoane, known to us as Solly Moholo. He provided the melodies, rhythms and words of inspiration and comfort…Our sincere sympathies once more to the Molokoanes as we reflect on Solly's contribution to the spiritual and cultural life of our nation and as we turn up the volume on his recorded performances."

Meanwhile, Moholo will be remembered at a memorial service to be held tomorrow at the South African State Theatre at 11am, and his funeral service will be on Saturday in Akasia Hall in Pretoria at 8am. Thobakgale also said that transport for the memorial and funeral services will be available for his fans.