Address by Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, @ZiziKowa on the occasion of Honouring Dr. John Kani as a Living Legend of the Arts through the Van Toeka Af Series at Market Theatre, Johannesburg

Programme Director
Kani Family and Friends
Premier of Gauteng Province, Mr Lesufi
Chairman of Market Theatre, Mr Phil Molefe
CEO of Market Theatre, Ms Tshiamo Mokgadi
Acting DG, Dr. Stella Khumalo
Officials of the Department
Bro Hotstix Mabuse
Fellow Artists
Distinguished guests
Members of Media
Ladies and gentlemen

Today is an extra-ordinary chapter of the Van Toeka Af series of recognising living legends in the arts and culture sector. We are gathered here today, to recognise and pay tribute to a remarkable individual who has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape, an icon whose contributions have enriched our lives and touched our hearts. It is not just a random day, but it is his birthday too!! I am therefore very honoured to be amongst his family and friends celebrating this huge milestone with him.

Van Toeka Af is the Department’s way of recognizing and acclaiming the living legends of the creative and cultural industries. The objective being to 
• To honour and recognize Living legends who have played a great role and made a significant contribution Arts and Culture Sector
• To share knowledge on what it takes to be African creative and culture champion and world class artist or practitioner whilst inspiring younger and upcoming artists to emulate these giants.

The intention of the Department is to “give them flowers, while they can still smell them”. In this way we will have less of posthumously bestowed accolades.

Our guest of honour this evening, Dr John Kani, is not merely an actor, playwright, and director; he is a living testament to the power of art to inspire change, transcend boundaries, and foster unity. This became clear to this legend as early as in 1965, when on meeting playwrights Athol Fugard and Barney Simon, he said “I realized that I could use art and the power of the word to speak truth to power,”
Armed with heightened consciousness due to his upbringing, which in one of his conversations he describes as “I was given a strong sense of self, which probably bordered on arrogance.

However, the indignities of Apartheid were visible, not just psychological,” he made a great contribution in the struggle for the liberation of his country through his work in the arts. He was later awarded an Order Of Ikhamanga by President Mbeki in 2005 in recognition of this contribution.

He continues to be the conscience of the nation as keeps challenging even those of us in positions of power.

His journey, one that began on the stages of South Africa and now resonates globally, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to both his craft and the ideals he holds dear.

Dr Kani's impact is not confined to the realm of theater and film. His work, both on and off the stage, has been a driving force in breaking down the barriers that once divided us. Through his collaborations with other artists and his portrayal of characters that resonate across cultures, he has highlighted the universality of the human experience. His performances have served as mirrors reflecting society's triumphs and struggles, challenging us to confront uncomfortable truths and envision a better future.

Dr Kani is a marvelous and intriguing storyteller. As a writer, Kani's pen has been mightier than the sword, influencing more people and events…giving voice to stories that were once silenced and bringing to life perspectives that were once disenfranchised. His productions have taken us on journeys that explore our history, our identities, and our aspirations. In so doing, he has thrown light on the path towards healing and reconciliation, reminding us that our shared humanity surpasses any differences.

Dr Kani's influence extends far beyond his artistic accomplishments. His activism and advocacy have played a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable world. His commitment to social justice and his tireless efforts to uplift the marginalized have illustrated the role of an artist as a catalyst for change. His dedication to education and mentorship has nurtured countless talents, ensuring that the legacy of creativity and progress continues to flourish.

These and many other contributions and attributes, earned Dr Kani recognition from the President of the Republic in 2005, when he received the Order of Ikhamanga for his contribution to the liberation of his country. Subsequently John was appointed by the President to serve on the Presidential Advisory Council of National Orders and Awards.
One leaf that I take from this branch, called John Kani, is the power of being rooted and connected, staying with and within your people!

Dr Kani, you made such an impression on me, during an interview in Bruce Whitfield’s 702 Make Money Mondays Show, when you reflected about your attitude towards money. You said you have lived a Debt-free life all your adult life. Adding that your financial management ethos is based on needs not wants. I wish we as Africans and Art practitioners, would take heed from your words of wisdom “You must ensure what you earn after a project, can take care of you at least 6 six months, without you looking for work desperately.”

I look forward to seeing more young artists, through your mentorship and coaching session being responsible, successful and wealthy businesspeople.

I admire not only your talent but the respect you have for your craft. I found myself watching “Sizwe Banzi is dead” about two times. I was intrigued by the fact that, it was in two different venues, yet, literally every part, every move, every expression was the same both times…It was like I was watching a movie! If that is not discipline, practice, passion, focus and respect for your audience, I don’t know what it is!!
Today, we celebrate not just the man, but the legacy he has created and the legacy he continues to build. We acknowledge his contributions to our cultural heritage and the positive impact he has had on our society. We express our deep appreciation for his unwavering dedication to his craft, his country, and humanity.

In recognition of Dr John Kani's immeasurable contributions to culture, arts, and the betterment of our nation, it is my honor to announce him as one of the five Living legends in the Van Toeka Af series of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, that will be honoured this financial year and the fifth since the beginning of the series.
Ladies and gentlemen, let us take this moment to reflect on the profound influence of John Kani and the ways in which he has enriched our lives. As we pay tribute to his extraordinary journey, let us also commit ourselves to carrying forward the values he embodies – passion, empathy, resilience, and the belief in the transformative power of art.

Eighty has never looked so good on a person!! Happy Birthday Dr Kani, may you see many more!!

Thank you, for your boundless contributions. Your legacy will forever shine as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.