Dr (honoris causa) Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila continues to shine. After receiving an honorary doctorate from the North-West University (NWU) in recognition of his commitment to preserving the Setswana, Sesotho, and Sepedi languages, he received another accolade.
This time Easy was honoured at the South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMAs) for his dedication and promotion of the Setswana language in mainstream media for over three decades.
He was honoured alongside former chairperson of the African Union and former cabinet minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, former national assembly speaker and former cabinet minister Thandi Modise, and former national speaker Baleka Mbete.
The SATMAs are about celebrating music made in the style of the people and various language groups of South Africa. It was founded by Dumisani Goba to “eliminate tribalism and other divisive measures”.
Easy says he appreciates the recognition while he is still alive. “I appreciate getting my flowers when I can still smell them, and I am grateful for it starting with my former university. I wish to continue working with the NWU to help preserve the Setswana language,” he adds.
Easy was popularly known for anchoring the Setswana news bulletin on SABC 2 at 20:00, and he kept viewers informed and entertained with his fluent delivery and exceptional broadcasting skills. He also held roles as bulletin editor and executive producer at the SABC.
Reflecting on his journey, Easy highlights the importance of preserving the Setswana language. “I hope to see the Setswana language not diminishing as a result of new technologies. During my time at the SABC I made it my mandate to deliver any presentation in the pure and living Setswana language.”
Easy continues to garner accolades from various institutions for his valuable societal input and will soon be acknowledged by the Saving Lives Foundation at the Moretele Community Recognition Awards for his substantial societal contributions.
Dr (honoris causa) Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila was honored at the South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMAs) for his dedication and promotion of the Setswana language in mainstream media.
