The event called Segopotso Sa Tau Ya Koma will be held at Camel Thorn in Ranaka on October 26, 2024.
Born Mponang Ketshabile, Gong Master died last year at the age of 50 due to a stroke. In an interview with Arts&Culture, Baipidi explained that the event is about celebrating the life of the late artist and also unveil his tombstone. He further explained that the idea of hosting the event came about after the realisation that most of the time when local legends/icons passed on, people tend to forget about them and move on with their lives. “In this context we want to continue Gong Master’s legacy. The event will start in the morning by unveiling the tombstone then later on there will be the celebration and remembrance of his legacy.
We target everyone who was Gong Master's fan, family and friends and pray that they grace the event in numbers,” he said. Artists who will be performing at the event includes Ditiro Leero, Tshumo, Khoza Mkhozeni, Lets Montsosa, Nomtiti (SA), Tawana ya Koma, Skelem Key Fam and BJB will be hosting the event. Stalls are sold at P1, 500 for alcohol and P1, 000 food. Furthermore, Baipidi explained that they would allow bottles in the venue because they hired people to take care of all empty bottles and cans. He added that the venue was a farm so it would be easy to control. He also said they will have tight security for both their customers and their belongings.
Speaking of the challenges they face to host a successful event, he said their main issue was lack of funding and sponsors. He added that all of their service providers were locals because they wanted to empower local small medium enterprise (SMEs). He also said the most significant thing about their event was that all disabled people would be entering free of charge.
