Get the latest stories, features, and updates from Bona Magazine in your inbox.
You're in!
Thank you for subscribing. We're so glad you're here — keep an eye on your inbox for the latest from Bona.
Articles you may also like
Article
Family confirms: Rapper AKA shot dead in drive-by shooting
4y·
By Staff Bona
Kiernan “AKA” Forbes was shot and killed in Durban shooting.
The incident took place outside the restaurant Wish on Florida Road just after 10pm on Friday night.
AKA is one of SA’s most loved rappers and has produced hist songs such as Fela In Versace, Baddest, Jika, All Eyes On Me and others since he broke into the industry.
His family has confirmed his passing in a statement.
“It is with extreme sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved son, and confirm his untimely and tragic passing on the evening of February 10, 2023.
“We are awaiting further details from the Durban Police. To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kairo.
“To many he was AKA, SUPAMEGA, BHOVA and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved and he gave love in return. In this time of grief we appeal for your compassion, space and time to congregate as family to decide on the upcoming days,” read the statement.
The family thank the public for condolences messages since the news broke: “We thank you for the love and support we have received thus far, and ask you continue to keep us in your prayers and uplifted in the Lord,” it concluded.
Picture: Instagram / @afrika_plug
Speaking to EWN, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for arts and culture Amanda Bani-Mapena expressed sadness following the brutal murder of the artist.
“KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport Arts Culture has learnt with shock and sadness of the fatal shooting of rapper Kiernan Forbes known as AKA late on Friday evening in Durban’s bustling Florida Road precinct,” said Bani-Mapena.
“We hope the law enforcement agencies will do their work in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” added Bani-Mapena.
Just mere hours before the incident, AKA has been promoting his upcoming album.
Grace Mondlana is officially taking centre stage on South Africa’s premier lifestyle programme Top Billing this Thursday, 29 October 2026, as the multi-award-winning content creator, entrepreneur, and digital powerhouse makes her feature debut on the iconic show. Also see: GRACE MONDLANA’S POST-HOLIDAY DETOX STRUGGLES HAVE SOUTH AFRICANS RELATING Known for celebrating the very best in […]
South African fashion designer Thebe Magugu is celebrating the country’s influential women in music through the 2026 Magugu FC Women’s League, bringing together 11 artists whose sounds are shaping the local music scene. Also see: Thebe Magugu and Woolworths join forces for Heritage Day The latest edition of Magugu FC continues Thebe’s annual exploration of […]
Football legend Thierry Henry is set to attend the highly anticipated Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 31 October, adding international star power to one of South Africa’s biggest football fixtures. Also see: Soweto Derby fever: Pirates vs Chiefs tickets sell out in hours The two Soweto giants will face off […]