Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule founder and executive producer of the Crowns. Picture: Supplied
This week started on a bleak note for the entertainment industry with the death of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of Crown Gospel Music Awards and UKhozi FM radio personality, in the early hours of August 12.
Mbokazi-Nkambule, known for her lifelong dedication to spreading messages of hope, faith, and resilience, has been remembered for how she connected with people through her passion for broadcast.
The Nkambule and Mbokazi families made the announcement, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support for her when she was ill, in a statement.
“It is with a heavy heart that we, the Nkambule and Mbokazi families, announce the passing of our dearly beloved Ms. Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards and UKhozi FM radio personality.
“She departed to be with the Lord; early hours of 12 August 2024, at Parklands Hospital. We are grateful for all the prayers, love, and support we received throughout her illness. The family would appreciate privacy as we navigate through this challenging time.”
Media friends, fans, and those who worked closely with Mbokazi-Nkambule shared their heartfelt condolences on social media.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) extended its, “heartfelt condolences to the Mbokazi family, friends, Christian community, and all South Africans during this time of profound loss.”
The Collen Mashawana Foundation said: “RIP Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. May she rest in peace. We extend our deepest condolences to the Mbokazi and Nkambule families.”
BI Phakathi, a well-known philanthropist, was among those who hailed her for shaping the gospel industry. “A legendary force who pioneered, led, shaped, and carried the gospel industry... Radical is prayer and spirit, an inspirator of note. Lala ngoxolo Mama.”
The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government shared a lengthy tribute to Mbokazi-Nkambule and her lasting impact on people she connected with through the airwaves.
The statement by Premier Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli, said: “It is with a heavy heart that we have started the week and Women’s Month with the sad news of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s untimely passing. On behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal and Provincial Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Ukhozi FM listeners, her colleagues, and the family of the beloved radio personality, Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. Grief has gripped the airwaves of her beloved Ukhozi FM as listeners, colleagues, and friends come to terms with this immense loss.
“We had every hope that she was going to recover from her illness because Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was not merely a presenter; she was a beacon of hope and inspiration in the broadcasting industry. Through her show ‘Eshilo’, which was broadcast every Sunday morning from 9am to 12, she connected with people on a personal level, making each one feel seen and heard.
“Her passion for radio and commitment to providing quality content made her an irreplaceable part of our community, and her absence will be deeply felt. For dedicating her life to uplift others by spreading messages of hope, faith, and resilience, she deserves to be applauded. It is for this reason that I have recommended that the government officially take part in the funeral arrangements, guided by the family.”
“Mbokazi-Nkambule was a media personality, but many will recall that she was the founder of the Crown Gospel Awards, which are often referred to as the Grammys of gospel music in South Africa; since their inception in 2007,” the staement added.
“Her contribution, by promoting gospel music talent from KZN and beyond, through the Crown Gospel Awards, certainly changed many people’s lives and fortunes. Her legacy continues to be celebrated in KZN and across South Africa.”
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
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