The sound of guitars, poetry and song filled the Main Mall on Tuesday evening as artists, friends and music lovers gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of acclaimed guitarist Kabo Leburu, who passed away on Friday, July 10.

 

The memorial celebrated the life of a musician many described as humble, generous and passionate about nurturing Botswana’s creative community.

Speaking during the memorial, founder of the Music and Coffee with Goth Rose creative platform, Goth Rose, said Leburu believed in collaboration and always encouraged fellow creatives.

He said whenever one had a conversation with Leburu, he would always leave them with words of encouragement regardless of what they did. Goth Rose said Leburu believed in bringing artists together, constantly shared ideas and always found ways to create opportunities for collaboration.

He said the gathering was not only about mourning the musician’s passing but celebrating his creative spirit by allowing artists to honour him through their talents.

Goth Rose described Leburu as someone who always carried hope and positivity, saying he was always smiling, open to everyone and willing to engage in conversations. He said even when Leburu faced challenges, he remained hopeful and inspired those around him with his resilience.

Many who attended the memorial said Leburu was a familiar face at the Main Mall, where he enjoyed outdoor performances, played his guitar in open spaces and freely shared his gift with members of the public. Despite earning international recognition, they said he remained approachable and never considered himself bigger than the community that embraced him.

Affectionately known as Kabo wa Katara, the Peleng West, Lobatse-born musician was admired for his rare ability to seamlessly combine acoustic guitar, harmonica and vocals during his performances.

His remarkable talent earned him a place alongside some of Africa’s celebrated musicians. Over the years, he performed at BotswanaCraft alongside internationally acclaimed artists including Hugh Masekela, Jimmy Dludlu, Oliver Mtukudzi, Louis Mhlanga, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Lira, Ringo Madlingozi, Salif Keita, MiCasa, Zahara, Thomas Mapfumo and Banjo Mosele, among many others. 

Leburu also represented Botswana on the international stage, particularly in Germany through the Kalahari Roses ensemble, where he helped promote Botswana’s music and culture through the Tales from Botswana project. He also performed in countries including Kenya, South Africa and Eswatini, earning respect for blending Botswana’s musical traditions with jazz and world music. 

A self-taught guitarist, harmonica player, singer and songwriter, Leburu was known for songs such as Mmapaseka, Sejaro, Xhaio featuring Berry Heart and Kidi-kaba, his latest single that reflected his ability to blend traditional Botswana sounds with global musical influences. 

Ms Zandile Kovewa of Lobatse said Leburu was one of the greatest musical talents the town had ever produced. She said she had always been proud to see a fellow resident of Lobatse represent Botswana on international stages, adding that despite his success, he remained humble, simple and approachable. She said his extraordinary talent was matched by his humility, making him an inspiration to many aspiring musicians.

Journalist and friend of the late musician, Victor Baatweng, described Leburu as one of Botswana’s most gifted guitarists. He said Leburu, together with fellow guitarist Ntirelang Berman, ranked among the finest guitarists the country had ever produced.

Although he performed on international stages, those who gathered at the Main Mall said they would remember him most for his humility, kindness and willingness to encourage others. To many, Kabo Leburu was not only one of Botswana’s finest guitarists, but also a gentle soul whose music united people and whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists.

 

Leburu will be buried in Lobatse on Saturday.

ENDS