“I will make him proud in everything I do” – Senyaka Junior

Survived by his two children, Hanna Motumo, 22, and Junior Kekana, 12, Thula Senyaka Kekana would have turned 59 on Saturday next week. Senyaka died at Kopanong Hospital after a short illness. His friend and housemate, Bathini Ngubane, said Senyaka had coughed and vomited blood shortly before his death.

Senyaka’s comic and musical life was celebrated at the Albertina Sisulu Hall, Orlando as his fans, family and industry veterans gathered to pay him tribute. Music legends, including Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Steve Kekana and Peter Mokoena, were invited to the stage by Senyaka’s cousin, also programme director, Quincy Kekana, to come and pay the Chisa Mpama and Fong Kong legend a joyous tribute. Winnie Khumalo, poet Mzwakhe Mbuli and Trompies members also shared the stage.

“We are still coming back as legends to show you wonders,” said Mokoena.

“I will make him proud in everything I do,” said Senyaka Junior, who was shattered as his father’s coffin descended. Hanna said she had planned a reunion with her father. “This year I’d decided that it’s gonna be a year of change for me.” She said she wanted both her parents to become part of her life.

Victor Bogopane, better known as Doc Shebeleza, said “personally I was motivated by Senyaka.” Trompies’ Jairus “Jakarumba” Nkwe said he had also lost a mentor. “I will miss his advice. I am going to miss him like a brother.”

Senyaka was laid to rest at the Westpark Cemetery next to Simba Mhere.
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo graced the funeral service.