Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his profound sadness over the passing of cultural champion, esteemed jazz figure, and Distinguished Member of the Order of Ikhamanga, Abdullah Ibrahim.
The iconic pianist left us at the age of 91, marking the end of an extraordinary musical career that spanned a multitude of jazz genres and international borders.
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On Monday, June 15, 2026, President Ramaphosa offered his sincere condolences to Abdullah Ibrahim’s children, pianist Tsakwe and hip-hop artist Jean Grae.
Their mother, Sathima Bea Benjamin, who was also a revered artist and recording musician, passed away in 2013, nine years after being honored with the Order of Ikhamanga.
As a pianist, composer, arranger, and mentor, Abdullah Ibrahim was a vocal opponent of apartheid, enchanting audiences with his thoughtfully curated performances that showcased both his solo endeavors and collaborations with both established and budding artists.
His artistry was a reflection of his spirituality and his reflective practice of martial arts.
In 2009, he was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, recognizing his remarkable contributions to the arts, his pivotal role in promoting South African music globally, and his steadfast opposition to racism and apartheid.
President Ramaphosa remarked: “Today, our nation mourns the loss of an international icon and global citizen whose influential work celebrated the South Africa that informed his political dedication and musical brilliance.
“As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Youth Uprising, Abdullah Ibrahim’s passing serves as a reminder of the benefit concert he organized to support the liberation movement after the Uprising, illustrating his commitment to our cause.
“We are thankful for the numerous decades he dedicated to his craft, generously sharing his passion with the world through his recordings and performances in clubs and concert halls across the globe.
“He has enhanced our lives with his musical gifts and his endeavors to create a better world.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
