07 Jun 2020

Coronavirus restrictions saw a handful of people bidding farewell to radio icon, Thuso Letlhoma on June 5 in Molepolole.

Some people believe that had it not been for the pandemic, Thuzosky, as he was affectionately called, would have had a great send off.

After all, he was popular in the local and South African entertainment industry.

As a staunch member of Jehovah’s Witness Church, funeral proceedings were conducted according to the church’s practice.

Unlike most Christian churches where there are several speakers accompanied by hymns, Jehovah’s Witness Church does not permit any speeches, messages or flowers.

From the only two tributes read, Thuso was described as a loving and humble media practitioner.

A message from President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi described him as a gifted orator who gave life to the popular Masa-A-Sele show that he co-hosted.

Dr Masisi noted in his message that Thuso would forever be remembered for his invaluable contribution to the media in the country, saying he was committed and selfless in the field of broadcast media.

Another message of condolence from Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Kabo Morwaeng described him as a selfless person in his work.

Morwaeng said Thuso devoted his life to the media industry and connected with Batswana through his radio show, informing Batswana of the programmes for the betterment of their lives.

He said his gentle voice would forever be remembered, and that his contribution to the development of Botswana would not be forgotten.

Thuzosky’s friends in the media and creative industries held a memorial service for him prior to his burial on Thursday.

 It was a memorial service full of jokes and song as the morning show anchor was celebrated by the media fraternity.

Director of Broadcasting Services, Keiterele Mathape described Thuso as a genius and well-read reporter of note.

She said Thuso never presented his work without thorough research.

She also said he was a socialite, but was never disturbed by his social life to deliver diligently on his work.

Duma FM’s Michael ‘Dignash’ Morapedi also described Thuzosky as a pioneer and celebrity who displayed purity in his craft.

“O ne a rata gore babatonaa…Thuzosky…he represented everything a broadcaster needs to be because he was of fundament and good constitution,” Dignash said.

He said with the advent of private radio stations, there was no grasp and fathom of the importance of radio as a medium.

“For us who have had the pleasure and privilege to have launched our career from Radio Botswana at the time, it was having the opportunity to have interacted with the legends who inspired us.”

Dignash appealed to government to recognise and honour the fallen heroes as well as living legends.

Other speakers also shared Dignash’s sentiments, saying the legends should be recognised by naming facilities after them. They also said it would create a lasting legacy.

His co-host, Boitumelo Seitibatso described him as a creative genious  who was also deeply religious. Ends