Salute to Bob Marley

Mbulelo Qongo, Langa

Growing up in apartheid South Africa during the turbulent 1980s was not easy.

The country was on fire, total onslaught was the minority mantra, kids were forced into the army to prop up the system.

Looking back at my teenage years, I am thankful that I discovered reggae music and legends like the late, great Robert Nesta Marley.

Through Bob’s music I became aware of the writings of activist Marcus Garvey, whom Marley quoted frequently in his lyrics.

A favourite is: emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds.

Happy birthday and many thanks Bob for helping make me who I am today.

Bob Marley would have celebrated his 75th birthday on February 6.