Legendary South African gospel singer, Solly Moholo, has passed away following an illness shortly after his pre-album launch tour in Botswana.

According to his family, Moholo who was known and celebrated for his energetic performances and spiritual music, passed away on Wednesday, October 2, at the age of 65.

“It is with great sadness that we inform you that our beloved legend Solly Moholo has sadly passed on,” a statement issued by the family on Friday read.

The statement however, requested privacy as the family gradually comes to terms with their loss and prepare for Moholo’s funeral, with details about the memorial service to be shared on his official pages in the coming days.

Moholo who was born Solomon Molokoane, was a pivotal figure in South African gospel music, known for his unique blend of traditional gospel sounds and modern township influences.

A local media in a tribute to the singer, wrote:

“His powerful voice and uplifting lyrics resonated deeply with millions, making him a beloved household name in South Africa and beyond.

“Hits like “Ba Mmitsa Moholo Wa Dipelo” and “Ke Mo Afrika” became anthems in churches and community events, offering comfort, hope, and joy to listeners.

“Despite the loss, Moholo’s legacy will endure through his extensive discography, which features dozens of albums reflecting themes of faith and perseverance.

“His music not only shaped the gospel genre in South Africa but also addressed social issues, demonstrating his commitment to using his platform for good.

“Solly Moholo’s influence extended beyond South Africa, as he regularly performed in countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Lesotho, where his music was equally celebrated. His passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of fans across the African continent.”

The United Kingdom has finally announced that it is relinquishing sovereignty of Chagos Islands, a remote but strategically important cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius, after more than half a century of being in charge.

The deal, which was reached after years of negotiations, will see the UK hand over the Chagos Islands which includes the tropical atoll of Diego Garcia, used by the US government as a military base for its navy ships and long-range bomber aircraft, to the African country.

The announcement, made in a joint statement by the UK and Mauritian Prime Ministers, brings to an end decades of often fractious negotiations between the two countries.

Though the deal is still subject to finalisation of a treaty, both sides have promised to complete it as quickly as possible.

“This is a seminal moment in our relationship and a demonstration of our enduring commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and the rule of law,” a joint statement signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth read.

The two leaders also said they were committed “to ensure the long-term, secure and effective operation of the existing base on Diego Garcia which plays a vital role in regional and global security”.

The treaty will also “address wrongs of the past and demonstrate the commitment of both parties to support the welfare of Chagossians,” the statement said, adding that the UK will provide a package of financial support to Mauritius, including annual payments and infrastructure investment.

Mauritius on the other hand, will also be able to begin a programme of resettlement on the Chagos Islands, but not on Diego Garcia as the US-UK military base will still be in operation for an initial period of 99 years.

In recent years, the UK has faced rising diplomatic isolation over its claim to what it refers to as the British Indian Ocean Territory, with various United Nations bodies, including its top court and general assembly, overwhelmingly siding with Mauritius and demanding the UK surrender what some have called its “last colony in Africa”.

The government of Mauritius has long argued that it was illegally forced to give the Chagos Islands away in return for its own independence from the UK in 1968.

Britain later apologised for forcibly removing more than 1,000 islanders from the entire archipelago and promised to hand the islands to Mauritius when they were no longer needed for strategic purposes.