A new memorial forest has been created in the eastern Free State to honor the legacy of award-winning South African rapper Riky Rick and community leader Anton Chaka.
The Riky Rick & Anton Chaka Memorial Forestlocated at Rustlers Valley Farm, was announced on the fourth anniversary of Riky Rick’s death February 23.
The project is a joint effort between the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivismthe Rustlers Valley Foundation NPCand the Naledi Village Common Property Association (CPA)and aims to celebrate youth empowerment, stewardship of the environment and community dignity.
Anton Chaka’s fight for land and dignity
Rustlers Valley has great historical significance for Naledi Village, where residents have endured decades of forced relocation and land insecurity. Under the leadership of Anton Chaka, the community successfully claimed common ownership of their land, a victory symbolized by the long-awaited title deed that he personally collected months before his death.
“This forest is not just about trees,” said Charles Tsenase, chairman of the Naledi Village CPA.
“It’s about restoring the dignity of a community that fought for its future. Ntate Anton believed that when people own their land, they also own their future.”
His daughter, Mookho Chaka, added: “Seeing this forest grow in his name means that his work continues – for every young person who walks these paths and learns that dignity starts with caring for the land and for each other.”
Professor Kosheek Sewchurran, director of the Rustlers Valley Foundation NPC, said: “At a time of climate fear and fractured communities, planting a forest is an act of courage. It confirms that the future is worth investing in.”
In honor of Riky Rick
Born on July 20, 1987 in KwaMashu, Durban, Riky Rick was more than a celebrated musician. From his early song Tell me why at major events like Family Values and CottonFest, he advocated for social justice, youth empowerment, and mental health awareness, sparking national conversations about men’s wellness.
“Riky believed deeply in healing, even when he was struggling himself,” said his brother, Sheikani Makhado. “The dream of this forest represents the kind of space he would have loved, a place where creativity, reflection and nature come together.”
His mother, Louisa Zondo, added: “Planting trees in his name is about remembering him in action – continuing the work of healing, empowerment and restoring the good we may have lost. We see it as planting dignity, hope and courage for the next generation.”
Saturday Star
Saturday Star Reporter
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