Africa

Fans Pay Tribute to Slain South African Rapper AKA

A fan poses for a photograph at the memorial of South Africa rapper Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA on Feb. 17 at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa. (VOA/Thuso Khumalo)

Fans of South African multiple award-winning rapper Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA, bid farewell to the late rap star Friday at a memorial held at the Sandton Convention Center in the Johannesburg suburb.
Washington — 

The 35-year-old was shot dead alongside friend and entrepreneur Tebello "Tibz" Motsoane last Saturday outside a restaurant in the southeastern city of Durban.

"He was authentic. He was just crazy. He represented South Africa very well. He represented Africa very well. He was proud of where he came from, his people. And whenever he was with us it was a bless[ing]," AKA fan Lebo Siyaso told VOA.

Fans Kabelo Mohlala and Jaison said they were both devastated by artist's death.

"It was very devastating with the news, that we have to come here and pay our respects to the guy. We never thought of coming here," Jaison said.

Another fan, who identified herself as Bongi, said she was shocked by the death of AKA, but would celebrate his life.

"I'm shattered, I'm really annoyed and I'm pissed. What happened to AKA was really bad, but we are here as the Megacy to celebrate his life," Bongi said.

Megacy is the affectionate name of AKA's fan. The rapper was also called "Supa Mega."

Fans wait in line at the memorial of South Africa rapper Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA on February 17 at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Speaking at the memorial, Forbes' mother Lynn Forbes said her son adored his fanbase.

"Today and every other day going forward, it will not just be about me, the rest of our family, extended family and friends. It will be about the Megacy as our broader family. I believe that is what Kiernan would have wanted," Lynn Forbes said.

The family said Forbes' album "Mass Country," due out on Feb. 24, would be released as planned.

"In the last two years Mass Country has become AKA’s entire world. The Supa Mega constantly kept the album release momentum, and anticipation high," his management said in a statement.

His single "Company," featuring Nigerian producer and artist Ayoola Oladapo Agboola known as Kiddominant, was released Friday.

Forbes will be laid to rest in a private ceremony on Saturday at his provincial home.

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VOA's Thuso Khumalo contributed to this report.