Friends, family, and fans gathered at the Akasia Community Hall in Pretoria on Saturday for the funeral of revered gospel singer Solly Moholo.
Story Summary:
- Solly Moholo’s children revealed his health worsened after being moved from ICU to a poorly maintained public hospital ward, where he contracted a fatal stomach bug.
- The family struggled to afford necessary medical care and now face a hospital bill of R97,000.
- Moholo was honoured with a special provincial funeral, where his legacy in gospel music was celebrated.
Solly Moholo funeral: Here’s what his children revealed
The 65-year-old legend, known for his powerful voice and spiritual influence on South Africa’s gospel music scene, passed away on Wednesday, 2 October 2024, after a prolonged illness.
The funeral was marked by poignant revelations from his children about his final days and the unfortunate circumstances that led to his death.
Moholo’s son-in-law disclosed during the service that the gospel icon’s health took a drastic turn for the worse after he was moved from the ICU to a poorly maintained general ward in a public hospital.
It was here that Moholo reportedly contracted a stomach bug, which his family believes contributed to his death.
His children expressed deep frustration, saying that their father’s iconic status could not shield him from the challenges of inadequate healthcare.
The family further shared that they had been financially strained by their father’s illness, needing R700,000 for an operation that could have improved his condition but only managing to raise R100,000.
In addition to the emotional toll of his death, they now face a hospital bill of R97,000 for the treatment he received at the same public facility where his condition worsened.
His children believe the healthcare system failed their father, a man whose contributions to South African music should have afforded him access to better care.
Solly Moholo’s passing leaves a significant void in the gospel music community.
Known for hits like Ke Latlhile Bokinzaand Robala ka Khotso, Moholo was not only a gospel singer but also a celebrated music producer who worked with artists like Winnie Mashaba.
His contribution to the genre, combined with his energetic performances, made him an irreplaceable figure in South African music.
At the funeral, Moholo’s dancers carried his coffin while performing his hit song Mphelegetse, a tribute that left mourners deeply moved.
Speakers included Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi and poet Mzwakhe Mbuli, both of whom praised Moholo’s contribution to the arts and his lasting legacy.
