Wits University honors Reverend Tiyo Soga in powerful musical tribute

The timeless strains of 𝘓𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴' 𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘩𝘰 𝘕𝘬𝘰𝘴𝘪 filled the Great Hall at Wits University as musicians, scholars and dignitaries gathered to honour Reverend Tiyo Soga.

The tribute celebrated a trailblazing intellectual, composer, and church leader who remains one of South Africa’s most influential historical figures.

More than 150 years after he composed the beloved hymn, Soga's legacy continues to resonate across generations.

Soga was the first black South African to be ordained as a minister, and he was also among the first African intellectuals to bridge cultures through education, faith and language.

Born in 1829 and educated at Lovedale, and later at the University of Glasgow, Soga helped translate the Bible into isiXhosa and left an enduring imprint on South African history.

SABC News Specialist Correspondent, Sophie Mokoena filed this report.

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