25 September 2009
Hugh Masekela receives special labour media award

Hugh Masekela, South Africa’s world class legendary musician received a special
Labour Media Award at the cultural event of Cosatu’s 10th national congress at
Gallagher Estate in Midrand. The award was presented to Masekela for his song
“Stimela” which tells about story about migrant workers from neighbouring countries
who travel on the coal train to work on South Africa’s mines. The song, a popular
favourite and a regular on Masekela’s concert repertoire is heart-wrenching as
it tells about the hardships and conditions that these mineworkers faced on the
mines, living in flea-ridden compounds – especially during the Apartheid era.