Keorapetse Kgositsile described as a humble giant.

The struggle stalwart was laid to rest at Westpark Cemetery on Tuesday after passing away on 3 January at the age of 79. 

In his eulogy, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa described Kgositsile as talented individual.

"Today we celebrate the life a poet, but also the life of a teacher, a father, a husband, an MK combatant, an ANC cadre, a servant of the people and an intellectual. We celebrate the life of a selfless man who contributed immensely to the development of his people and the society he lived in.”

He encouraged mourners to use Kgositsile's passing to recognise and celebrate African artists and their contribution to socio-political transformation.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura also gave tribute to the legendary poet.

Makhura reminded family and friends that Kgositsile's work brought hope in the time of great struggle.

"We should choose to hope again because as the dark clouds of corruption which compound poverty, inequality and unemployment shall clear in our country as we move forward.

"Perhaps we should honour him by ensuring that the dark clouds of the breakdown of our political institutions clears again and that we get rid of all the ills of our society.”

Kgositsile leaves behind his wife, three sisters, several children and grandchildren.