30 Mar 2025

Family, friends, government officials and members of the creative industry gathered in Gaborone on Friday to pay tribute to the late Thuto ‘Dramaboi’ Ramphaleng.

Known for his deep lyrical storytelling and connection to township life, Dramaboi who died in October 2021, left an indelible mark on the local music scene.

Speaking at the tombstone unveiling ceremony, Assistant Minister for State President, Maipelo Mophuting described Dramaboi as a revolutionist in the music industry. 

“Dramaboi was more than just an artiste, he was a storyteller, a people’s poet and a voice for the streets,” she said.

Mophuting added that through songs such as Sala Le Nna and Township Music, Dramaboi gave his fans a glimpse into his world, capturing the essence of township life with honesty and depth.

“Today, as we unveil this tombstone, we also recognise the deep admiration that many had for him including President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko,” she said, adding that the President not only appreciated Dramaboi’s music but loved and respected him both an artiste and an individual.

“It is that deep love that moved him to sponsor this tombstone, a lasting symbol of the impact that Dramaboi had on all of us,” she added. She reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting the creative sector.

Acknowledging Dramaboi’s contribution to the country’s music landscape, Minister of Sports and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng described the late rapper as a talented young man whose music resonated with many.

The minister urged continued investment in the creative industries. “President Boko’s kind gesture underscores the need to support and uplift our artistes,” he said, calling upon industry stakeholders to nurture upcoming talent.

Paying tribute to her son, Boitumelo Ramphaleng, described Dramaboi as an intelligent young man with an immense passion for music.

“He lived and breathed his art,” she said, moved by the overwhelming show of support for her late son.

Dramaboi died after a long illness and his legacy lives on through his music and the impact he made on the country’s creative landscape.  ENDS