It's been three days since the country was rocked by the passing of Amapiano artists Mpura, Killer Kau and up-coming artist Khanya Hadebe, along with three other people. They were involved in a fatal car accident on the N4, whilst on their way to a gig in Rustenburg.
They have committed themselves to working with various companies so the artists receive funeral cover as well as disability benefits. In addition to that the publication reports that they will be receiving travel benefits so they arrive at their respective gigs safely.
“In paying tribute to the two heroes (Killer Kau and Mpura) that have contributed immensely within the entertainment industry and as part of our efforts to promote and preserve the rich legacy that they crafted, Amapiano Awards are in conversations with financial services companies to create a facility that will assist in ensuring that our artists receive funeral cover and disability benefits,” the statement reads as quoted by TshisaLive.
This is a great initiative looking at how the artists died doing what they loved and enjoyed. There has been a lot of hearsay from people who assume that all, if not some were intoxicated whilst on the road. This is an assumption that has not been concluded by the police who have opened an investigation on the deaths.
“The department of community safety, roads and transport has confirmed the accident that claimed six lives on the N4. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and we hope they find strength during this difficult period. An investigation is underway to establish the cause of the accident. We are again appealing to people to adhere to the regulations as most accidents happen way past curfew time. Work with our law enforcement officials to ensure you arrive alive,” TshisaLive quoted the police statement.
This initiative by the Awards is a great one as the artists can travel safely to their gigs and then back home.
Founder of the awards, Famida 'Faye' Omar told the publication that this is a way to allow the families to grieve without having to worry about the financial costs of planning a funeral.
She even added that international stars are given special treatment when travelling as they have drivers and people who do stuff for them. Local artists, no matter how tired they are, have to commute themselves to these gigs.
“Artists go to places and try to do gigs, and then they are fatigued ... We give international celebrities so much leeway but our South African artists we treat with no leeway and dignity.”
