Celebrating the life and legacy of Buru Mohlabane, co-founder of Via Katlehong and long-time IFAS partner

In December 2025, the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) team learnt with great sadness of the passing of Buru Mohlabane. As co-founder of Via Katlehong Dance, Buru was a dancer, choreographer, community organiser, father, artist and custodian of South African cultural heritage. For almost three decades he collaborated with IFAS on projects that placed Pantsula dance on local and international stages.

Buru’s work with Via Katlehong Dance and Pantsula My World combined artistic excellence with a strong commitment to education and community engagement. His dedication to Pantsula, his respect for its history and his belief in its future shaped many programmes supported by IFAS over the years, from performances and tours to workshops for young dancers.

Colleagues at IFAS remember him for his kindness, his calm presence and his constant encouragement of emerging artists. In recognising his contribution, IFAS remains committed to supporting initiatives that carry forward the values he championed, particularly through ongoing work with the Pantsula Academy and Via Katlehong Dance.

IFAS extends sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all those who were influenced by his life and work.