The late rapper AKA’s family came together to celebrate his life and legacy on what would have been his 37th birthday.
AKA, whose real name was Kiernan Forbes, was tragically shot and killed outside Wish restaurant on Florida Road in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in February 2023. His close friend, Chef Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane, also lost his life in the same incident.
Marking the special day, AKA’s daughter Kairo Forbes, his mother Lynn Forbes, and his girlfriend, award-winning rapper Nadia Nakai, gathered for an intimate celebration in his honor. The event was not only a tribute to his memory but also a reflection of the strong bond his loved ones continue to share.
A Tribute Filled with Love
Taking to Instagram, Nakai shared heartfelt moments from the gathering. In one post, she referenced a line from AKA’s song Dangerous, featuring Blxckie, writing:
“Kairo is the ONE! 💜”
She continued with a touching message:
“Happy Heavenly Birthday @akaworldwide. Love and miss you forever! 💜 🕊️”
Many South African celebrities, including Shekhinah, Nkosazana Daughter, Nomuzi Mabena, Babes Wodumo, and Amanda du-Pont, sent their love and support in the comments.
Fans also joined in remembering the beloved artist. One user, @chipotaks, wrote:
“We will never recover from his death, honestly. Happy heavenly birthday, AKA. We will never forget you ❤️.”
Another, @neo.blacky, simply shared:
“Happy heavenly birthday to AKA.”
A Mother’s Unbreakable Bond
AKA’s mother, Lynn Forbes, also posted a deeply emotional tribute, reminiscing about the day she first held her son in her arms.
“On this day, at 1:15 in the early morning, I heard your first cry. I felt your warmth as you were placed on my chest. Your natural birth, 37 years ago, left me exhausted yet invigorated.
“I couldn’t take my eyes off you, counting every tiny toe, every little finger. My tiny baby boy, my firstborn. So perfect, so full of promise, you left me in awe.
“In that moment, my heart changed forever; you made me a mother. I was yours, and you were mine. A bond unbreakable, an infinite love.”
Lynn expressed that she couldn’t bring herself to say “happy heavenly birthday,” as her son’s birth remains an unforgettable moment in her heart.
“I can never say ‘happy heavenly birthday’ because your birthday is an occasion forever etched in my heart. Happy birthday, Kiernan.”
Remembering Supa Mega
AKA’s influence on the South African music industry remains undeniable, and his memory continues to live on through his family, fans, and the music he left behind. On his 37th birthday, those closest to him came together not just to mourn but to celebrate the life of an artist who left an indelible mark on the world.
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