Limpopo’s MEC for Arts, Sports and Culture, Mr Joe Maswanganyi advised artists to refrain from using drugs and use their bodily strength and power when performing.

He said this during the wedding ceremony of a prominent Limpopo gospel artist, Lufuno Dagada (32), at the weekend. Dagada is a lead singer for the Shayandima-based Worship House. Lufuno tied the knot with his childhood sweetheart, Thendo Netshiozwi (21), on Saturday.

“As a department, we are proud of musicians who live cleanly because they are role models from whom the young generation must learn. Musicians were formerly known for their womanizing character, but we are happy that people like Lufuno are leading by example to leave a good trend for the coming generations. Musicians are role models who should always watch over their lifestyles to avoid misleading the public…”

“Artists, like politicians, work under stressful conditions and they are a target for drug lords. We hope we will have a generation of artists who live responsibly and become a light for the next generations…”

The high-profile wedding was attended by the who’s who in politics, sports, education, broadcasting industry and musicians. Held at Tshedza Comprehensive School in Thohoyandou, the function came to a climax when the bridegroom could not contain himself and ascended the stage to perform the song A thi ni litshi ndi a ni funa (I won’t leave you because I love you). The happiest moment was when Lufuno sealed the deal by putting an expensive ring on his bride’s finger as the guests danced and ululated.

“I am happy that I am now a man at last…” said the joyous Lufuno shortly after the historic wedding. The couple thanked all the people who made the wedding possible.

A gospel music festival was held in honour of the couple at the capacity-filled Christ Worship House Church in Shayandima later in the evening. Artists who performed until the wee hours of Sunday morning included Worship House, Perfect Praise, Roxley Masevhe, Junior M, Power, Rejoice Mukumela, Fountain of Life and Brother in Love.