Musicians and other artists gathered at the Durban International Convention Centre on Saturday to say goodbye to legendary radio and TV presenter Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule.
The founder of the Crown Gospel Awards died on Monday at 52, just four months after being diagnosed with lung cancer. She was accorded a level-two special provincial funeral.
As she was laid to rest, the mood was both celebratory and sombre. Mbokazi-Nkambule was remembered as a dedicated thespian who made strides for women and society, while also excelling in being a mother.
Musicians, pastors and congregants were at her funeral. Guests included prominent industry figures such as Bishop Benjamin Dube, Dr Rebecca Malope, Lindelani Mkhize, Dumi Mkokstad and Dr SD Gumbi. The event was a jubilant exchange of praise music by musicians such as Dumi Mkokstad, Benjamin Dube and Sgwili no Babo.
On the podium, Mbokazi-Nkambule's children Yolanda and Mawande Myeza reminisced about the good times they had shared.
Mbokazi-Nkambule's niece, Nonjabulo Mdluli said her aunt had taken her in after her mother died when she was young.
“Just before she died [my mother] told me that aunt Zanele would be there for me, and she took the task of raising me as her child. Mama (Zanele) worked really hard, she trusted me in everything she did.
“I think she trained me for this day, but I was never ready. She was sick days before she received her diagnosis. I had broken my leg. We were chatting on WhatsApp as she was in her room in bed and I was in another room. She told me to work hard, she was crying and told me she was sick,” Mdluli said.
Dube comforted Mbokazi-Nkambule’s husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule: “Thanks for loving this giant, when gospel artists weren't given chairs in some tables, this giant made sure gospel gets the proper recognition.”
Gospel mogul Lindela Mkhize said, “It is tough because of the person she was. A lot of people today have careers and job titles because of her being their midwife and giving them opportunities in life.
Mbokazi-Nkambule was laid to rest at Mariannhill cemetery near Pinetown.
