Legendary musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka marked her 60th birthday in a special way—by giving back to the community that helped shape her. On Tuesday, 18 March, the Princess of Africa partnered with Shoprite to donate 100 food parcels to families in need in Dobsonville, Soweto.
According to Daily Sun, this initiative was not only a celebration of Yvonne’s six decades of life but also a tribute to her 40-year career in the creative industry. Despite the rainy weather, the event was met with warmth and gratitude, especially from elderly residents who received the much-needed food parcels.
For 80-year-old gogo Mbongwe, Yvonne’s act of kindness felt deeply personal. She recalled helping raise Yvonne and her sisters, making this moment especially significant.
“What Yvonne did today is important because we’re hungry. We received our grant money a few weeks ago, but things are tough. I’ve raised Yvonne and her sisters, and today I say, ‘Ukuzala ukuzelula’ (a child extends a parent’s legacy). We’ll have food to eat for the next few days,” said gogo Mbongwe.
Gogo Mggade (70) also shared her appreciation, emphasising how much the food parcels would help.
“I’m so thrilled. I don’t know what to say. These food parcels will help us a lot as we’re struggling. The only income we have is our grant, and our kids are unemployed. This will go a long way,” she said.
Meanwhile, gogo “Babes” Siyothula (84) praised Yvonne for staying true to her roots.
“She hasn’t forgotten where she comes from or the people who supported her growing up. There are a few people who make it in life and still come back to uplift their community, but Yvonne hasn’t forgotten us. She knew elderly people are struggling, and that’s why she gave us these gifts,” said gogo Babes.
For Yvonne, this initiative was her way of giving thanks to the community that stood by her throughout her journey.
“First and foremost, I thank God for granting me 60 years of life and 40 years in the creative industry. This is my way of saying thank you to the community that supported, gave me a platform, and stood by me throughout my journey. Some of these people watched me grow, and I just wanted to give back,” she said.
She also extended her appreciation to Shoprite and Universal Records for their support in making this initiative possible.
“I’m grateful to Shoprite. When I reached out to them, they answered my call. Sixty years of life plus 40 years in music equals 100 food parcels. Of course, I can’t help everyone, but I am doing my part. Universal Records has always supported me, and I’m thankful for their involvement in this venture,” said Yvonne.
