Kwaito legend, Victor Bogopane, popularly known as Doc Shebeleza, has been laid to rest. Family, friends and industry colleagues gathered at the Heroes Acre at the West Park cemetery in Johannesburg on Saturday.

The 51-year-old passed on last week.

It was an emotional send-off for the music icon, Doc Shebeleza. While we all know him as Shebeleza, for some, he was Victor Bogopane who was a philanthropist at heart.

Relative Blessing Bogopane says, “He further moved on to say that people need shelter, we won’t depend on government. He and his group built houses for families across South Africa.”

A friend Roy Yupa adds, “A child came from Zambia, a member of my family. When I arrived here, the child was very sick and did not know if he would make it … and he is alive today because of Doc Shebeleza.”

Gauteng MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane has praised the late Kwaito icon for his unwavering compassion for the community.

Chiloane says Shebeleza was committed to uplifting the youth in his community.

Beyond all his artistic achievements Doc Shebeleza’s heartbeat with extraordinary compassion for his community and his philanthropic extended far beyond occasional charitable acts. It was a fundamental part of his character. Through numerous initiatives, he brought hope to the desperate opportunities of the marginalised and dignity to those in need. His dedication to youth development and his commitment to nurturing young talent will remain one of the most significant expects of an enduring legacy.”

Industry colleagues and the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture Minister took the opportunity to also address the struggles faced by South African artists.

“Thuso Motaung was interviewing Doc Shebeleza, he’s an MC, where he was pleading for help in South Africa. No one came forth before the operation. Where is he today?” laments Artist Mzwakhe Mbuli.

Minister Gayton Mckenzie says, “We have failed artists in this country. They can’t even buy furniture, they don’t have 3-month bank statements, artists in this country are number one…”

As the family prepares for a life without their son, father and friend. Many South Africans will remember the contribution Shebeleza has made to the industry.

Video: “Doc Shebeleza” Bogopane Funeral – Cortège arrives at Westpark Cemetery