Renowned media personality Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule has died, aged 52, during the early hours of Monday, August 12, at Parklands Hospital in Durban.
Her daughter Nonjabulo told “TshisaLIVE” that the Ukhozi FM presenter and the Crown Gospel Awards founder had undergone minor surgery for shortness of breath.
Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule then revealed that his wife had been diagnosed with lung cancer.
In a statement, he said: “It is with a heavy heart that, we the Nkambule and Mbokazi family, announce the passing of our dearly beloved Ms Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of the Crown Gospel Awards & 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.”
He added: “The family would appreciate privacy as we navigate through this challenging time.”
Details of Mbokazi-Nkambule’s funeral and memorial service will be announced in due course.
Born in Durban on November 7, 1971, Mbokazi-Nkambule, who was also a preacher, evangelist and entrepreneur, made an indelible mark in the industry since her entertainment career began in the 1990s.
Her breakthrough role came on the reality show, “Livewire”, and this exposure led her to presenting gospel music programmes and talk shows on Ukhozi FM.
In 1997, she expanded her career to television when she worked as a news and current affairs presenter for SABC1.
She also presented the gospel music program, “Ihora Lokudumisa”, which further cemented her status as a respected figure in the South African gospel community.
In 1999, Mbokazi-Nkambule founded her public relations company, Mirror PR and Events, specialising in event management, communications, PR and media strategies. Through this company, she managed and produced top local and international events.
She was also the visionary behind the Crown Gospel Music Awards, an annual event which celebrates excellence in gospel music.
She also went on to host the first season of the reality gospel competition, “Shine”, and later presented the SABC1 religious talk show, “Khwezela/Rekindle with Zanele Mbokazi”.
Last year, following a 23-year hiatus, Mbokazi-Nkambule returned to radio as she took up a presenting gig on Ukhozi FM.
In 2011, she married Nkambule, who is a Bishop at Word of Hope Ministries. The couple shared a deep commitment to their faith and ministry, working together to spread the message of hope and empowerment. The couple have a daughter, Yolanda, 24.
As the news of the renowned personality’s passing continues to spread, scores took to social media to send their condolences.
@NalaThokozane wrote on X: “It's with sadness that I learned of Zanele Mbokazi's passing. May her soul rest in eternal peace..”
@TumiGabuza added: “What a sad day. Growing up watching you as a successful black woman it gave me so much hope, RIP Queen, condolences to family #RIPZaneleMbokazi.”
@justkwanda posted: “You fought a good fight mama till the end #RIPZaneleMbokazi.”
@Believes888 wrote: “We began following Gospel music, especially on TV, because of the wisdom and encouragement shared by her.”
@bodash9 posted: “Heaven will be having a celebration as they receive one of their own back home. Rest in peace Mama Zanele.”