Music icon and inspirational figure, Yvonne Chaka Chaka has been awarded an honorary degree by Rhodes University, a top South African public university.

Surprisingly, the recognition by the institution is not for her illustrious music career that touched many African lives and impacted the world, but for her humanitarian work.

“The Degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) (honoris causa) is in recognition of your standard, extensive and wide-ranging humanitarian work. This work includes your roles as Champion of the Global Fund to Fight AIDs, TB & Malaria,” the university said.

Before her music and humanitarian work, the 53-year-old Soweto-born Yvonne is also known to be a respected entrepreneur and tutor.

Dubbed the “Princess of Africa,” a name she received after a 1990 tour, Yvonne has been at the forefront of South Africa’s popular music for 27 years.

Among her smashing hits are “I’m Burning up,” “Thank you Mr. DJ,” I Cry For Freedom,” Motherland” and the even popular “Umqombothi” (“African Beer”) which was featured in the opening scene of the 2004 movie, “Hotel Rwanda.”

Apart from sharing stages with legends like Angelique Kidjo, Bono, Youssouf N’dour and Hugh Masekela, Yvonne has  performed for Queen Elizabeth II, ex-American President Bill Clinton, Thabo Mbeki and a host of other world leaders.