Heartfelt Tributes at Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s Memorial: A Family and Community Mourn

On Thursday, a moving memorial service was held at GNF in Durban to honor the life of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a prominent author, broadcaster, and the founder of the Crown Gospel Awards. The event brought together friends, family, and industry colleagues to pay their respects to a woman who left a lasting impact on many.

Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s daughters, Yolanda Myeza and Nonjabulo Mdluli, delivered poignant tributes, expressing the depth of their loss and the profound impact their mother had on their lives. Mbokazi-Nkambule, who is survived by her children Yolanda and Mawande Myeza, had always regarded Mdluli as her daughter. The family was deeply touched by the outpouring of support they received during their time of grief.

Myeza expressed gratitude for the love and support they received from the community, noting that even before Mbokazi-Nkambule’s passing, the arrangements for the memorial and funeral services were already in place. Despite the immense pain of their loss, Myeza spoke of the family’s commitment to prayer and faith, acknowledging that their faith has been a source of strength even when words failed them.

Earlier this year, Mbokazi-Nkambule’s health struggles became public knowledge when Bishop Nkambule and Ukhozi FM business manager Sbongi Ngcobo revealed her battle with lung cancer. The announcement came amid speculation about her health and her absence from the media. Mdluli, who was also Mbokazi-Nkambule’s PR manager, shared how her mother had always been open and transparent with her, calling her “my literal best friend” and emphasizing the deep trust and respect they shared.

Mdluli recounted the emotional toll of Mbokazi-Nkambule’s passing, revealing that her mother had confided in her about certain matters as she approached the end of her life. Despite their grief, Mdluli expressed a sense of resolve, supported by the presence of their father.

Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, Mbokazi-Nkambule’s husband, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the family during this difficult time. He praised the attendees for their support and acknowledged the Mbokazi family for their role in shaping his late wife’s life. Nkambule spoke movingly about his wife, describing her as a “wonderful, beautiful, passionate, and dedicated soul” who gave everything to her endeavors.

Nkambule reflected on his deep love for his wife, describing her as his rock and best friend. He expressed profound sorrow at her passing, revealing that her absence has left a significant void in his life. Despite the pain, he expressed thanks for the opportunity to have shared his life with her and for the love and support shown by others.

The funeral service for Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule is scheduled to take place on Saturday at the Durban International Convention Centre, starting at 09:00, before she is laid to rest in Mariannhill, Pinetown. The memorial and funeral have served as a testament to her remarkable life and the enduring impact she had on those around her.