The acclaimed Xitsonga singer, Thomas Chauke, will be honoured by the University of Venda for the way he promotes the Xitsonga language through his music. Over the past 31 years, Chauke has been a pioneer as far as the promotion of the local language is concerned. His music is enjoyed by millions of South Africans as well as fans from neighbouring countries. The head of the university´s centre for African Languages, Mokgale Mokgopa, said the university had decided to honour Chauke for his contribution made over 31 years by using language to preserve the African culture, arts and norms. "We are very proud of him and the way he uses language to convey messages to our people. That is why we are going to hold a special ceremony for him next Friday at our campus” said Mokgopa. He said the honour was not so much for his music, but for how he used language. Another Xitsonga lecturer, Thembani Babane, said Chauke had been a pioneer in Tsonga music and the use of language. “He is arguably the first Tsonga musician to spread a positive message, which helped to build a strong relationship between our communities and families. His ingenuity can been seen in how he uses figures of speech to spread a positive message to the community and educate young people and the elderly to be disciplined at home,” said Babane. During his career, Chauke has released over 31 albums. Over the years, Chauke has become synonymous with Tsonga music. Since the annual South African Music Awards (SAMA) were introduced 14 years ago, Chauke has won 12 awards for producing the best Tsonga music. Since Munghana-Lonene FM introduced its awards, he has scooped more than 10 prizes.