Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, the former Ukhozi FM presenter, received a jubilant and vibrant send-off from thousands of mourners who gathered at her funeral service at the Durban ICC on Saturday.
The beloved radio icon was laid to rest at Mariannhill Cemetery in Pinetown, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
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Musicians, pastors, and congregants filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of celebration and reverence. Notable attendees included Bishop Benjamin Dube, Dr. Rebecca Malope, Lindelani Mkhize, Dumi Mkokstad, Dr. SD Gumbi, and many others.
UMbhishobhi uBenjamin Dube ududuza abathamele inkonzo yomngcwabo kaZanele Mbokazi-Nkambule eqhubeka eDurban ICC#RipZaneleMbokazi pic.twitter.com/t3qWoRD7HN
— Isolezwe News (@IsolezweNews) August 17, 2024
The service was proof of Zanele’s impact on the gospel and entertainment community. Zanele’s children, Yolanda and Mawande, spoke about their heartbreak over the passing of their mother, reminiscing about the joyous times they shared.
Mbokazi-Nkambule’s niece, Nonjabulo, shared an emotional tribute, revealing how Zanele stepped in to raise her after her biological mother’s passing. Nonjabulo described how Zanele prepared her for life, even in her final days, saying, “Mama worked really hard, she trusted me in everything she did.”
Lala ngokuthula MaMbokazi🕊️
Uyohlezi usezinhlizweni zethu.
📍 ICC Durban #RIPZaneleMbokazi #UkhoziFM pic.twitter.com/oYJCtceywQ
— Ukhozi FM Official 📻 (@ukhozi_fm) August 17, 2024
Dube offered comforting words to Mbokazi-Nkambule’s husband, praising Zanele’s contributions to gospel music. “When gospel artists weren’t given chairs at some tables, this giant made sure the gospel got the proper recognition,” he said.
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Music producer Lindelani Mkhize paid a moving tribute, noting Zanele’s vital role in creating opportunities for many. “It is touching because of the person she was… she has been called, she did her purpose, she’s done her journey,” he said.
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s send-off was more than a funeral; it was a celebration of her life, her legacy, and the countless lives she touched. May her spirit continue to inspire and guide us all.
