The legacy of one of South Africa’s most influential cultural icons will continue to grow Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism, in partnership with the Naledi Village Communal Property Association and Rustlers Valley Regenerative Farm and Eco-Tourism, will launch the Riky Rick/Anton Chaka Memorial Forest on July 18 and 19, 2026.
Taking place in Rustlers Valley in the Eastern Free State, the two-day event marks the start of a long-term environmental, cultural and healing initiative to honor the lives of Riky Rick (Rikhado Makhado) and Anton Chaka through the creation of a living memorial forest.
A living tribute
Instead of creating a traditional monument, the partners have chosen to create a space where nature, memory and community come together.
Each tree planted symbolizes resilience, hope and renewal while encouraging conversations about mental wellbeing, environmental restoration and collective responsibility.
Guests attending the opening event will participate in memorial tree plantings, healing and reflection sessions, storytelling, earth connection experiences and ceremonial moments of remembrance.
The program will also honor the legacy of Frik Grobelaar, whose stewardship of Rustlers Valley in the early 1980s helped support the creation of Naledi Village and community development in the region.
Growing Riky Rick’s legacy
For the Riky Rick Foundation, Memorial Forest expands its mission to advance artivism by expanding Riky Rick’s legacy beyond music into environmental stewardship and community healing.
“Riky believed deeply in people,” says Louisa Zondo, executive director of the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism.
“Each tree planted becomes a symbol of hope, renewal and the reminder that even after loss, life continues to grow. We want this space to be one where families, youth and communities can heal, reflect and reconnect with themselves, each other and the natural world.”
A space for future generations
Located in the regenerative landscape of Rustlers Valley, the Memorial Forest will continue to grow through annual commemorations, educational programs, environmental initiatives and community gatherings.
By bringing together artists, families, conservationists, mental health advocates and local communities, the project aims to create a lasting legacy that celebrates lives that continue to inspire South Africans.
When the first trees take root in July, they will be a reminder that the greatest legacies are not only remembered, but cherished and cultivated.
Event details
Event: Launch of the Riky Rick/Anton Chaka Memorial Forest
Dates: July 18 to 19, 2026
Location: Rustlers Valley regenerative farm and ecotourism, Eastern Free State
Highlights of the program
- Plant a memorial tree
- Healing and reflection sessions
- Telling community stories
- Earth connection activities
- Ceremonial moments of memory and restoration
Venecia Valentine
inboundsa.com
