Johnny Clegg’s life-size bronze statue was unveiled at the Long March to Freedom – a Century City landmark. Long March to Freedom is the world’s greatest exhibition in bronze, celebrating South Africa’s history.
“Including Johnny Clegg in Long March to Freedom is a tribute to the social transformation artists can generate through their work” said Dali Tambo, speaking at the unveiling. Tambo is CEO of the National Heritage Project NPC, developers, owners, and operators of the Long March to Freedom. “Johnny was an exceptional individual; known as the ‘White Zulu’ he bridged cultures with his music, he used it as a weapon of resistance, he challenged injustice, and proved that music transcends all divides. His music was a rallying cry and a message of unity, resistance and hope during some of South Africa’s darkest days. Johnny’s spirit lives on today, not just in the music he created, but in the hearts of those he inspired.” Tambo went on to express his gratitude to Clegg’s family, who were deeply involved in the process, from selecting the statue’s stance to ensuring every detail honoured Clegg’s memory.
At the unveiling event, Johnny Clegg’s sons, Jaron and Jesse, paid emotional tributes in words and music to their father’s legacy and his depiction in bronze. As the ceremony drew to a close, Jaron summed up the significance of the moment. “For our family, this moment is bittersweet. But being here today, with my father’s dance captured in bronze, means a lot to us. It’s not just a monument – it’s a lasting tribute to his spirit, to his music, and to the connections he fostered.”
The sculpture, created by Cape Town artists Barry Jackson and Xhanti Mpakama and cast by Loup Fine Art Foundry in White River, Mpumalanga, was made possible through the generous support of the National Lotteries Commission.
This remarkable addition ensures that Clegg, celebrated for his role in both music and social activism, takes his rightful place alongside other iconic resistance leaders and freedom fighters who helped shape South Africa’s journey to democracy.
WHAT: Johnny Clegg Bronze Unveiled
WHERE: Long March to Freedom, Century City Boulevard, Century City, Cape Town
WHEN: open to the public daily from 10:00 – 16:30
TICKETS: R20 (children under 6 free) and includes a complimentary bottle of water
INFO: T 082 899 2958 | E info@longmarchtofreedom.co.za | VISIT |
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