The family of Miriam Makeba distanced itself on Thursday from a court battle over a commemorative concert for her.

"In our view, the court proceedings... are unfortunate. They undermine what she stood for," the family said in a statement.

"We categorically disassociate ourselves as the family from the court process."

The arts and culture department withdrew its support for the event on Wednesday, saying names of artists had been used to promote it without their consent.

The ministry is taking Morris Rhoda Productions to the High Court in Pretoria on Thursday to get about R3-million back that it invested in the event.

The family said: "We believe that any event organised in our Grandmother's honour should be properly organised, dignified and free of controversy.

"We believe that her life and legacy should inspire us as a nation and be a unifying symbol."

Makeba died on 10 November 2008, aged 76.

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