The government and business sectors paid tribute to Ukhozi FM presenter and Crown Gospel Awards founder Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, who died on Monday morning after a long illness.
eThekwini Municipality mayor Cyril Xaba said that he was saddened by the death of Mbokazi-Nkambule. “We are deeply saddened to learn about the untimely death of this gospel music icon and veteran broadcaster. We must all find solace in the fact that she left a legacy that we are proud of as a nation. Her presence on the Ukhozi FM airwaves will also be sorely missed.”
Xaba added that through the Crown Gospel Awards, Mbokazi-Nkambule contributed immensely to positioning Durban as a premier destination for major events and tourism.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli said that it was with a heavy heart that they had started the week and Women’s Month with the sad news of Mbokazi-Nkambule’s untimely passing.
“On behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal and the 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, friends come to terms with this immense loss.”
Palesa Phili, CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC, said that they were saddened by the death of Mbokazi-Nkambule, an entrepreneur and founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards.
“As organised business, we believe the passing away of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule is a huge loss to the business fraternity. In recent years, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC had the honour of working with Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule in empowering business owners to excel and grow their businesses.”
Phili added that Mbokazi-Nkambule was indeed a true entrepreneur who brought upon positive change and created a significant number of jobs. “Zanele will always be remembered for her enthusiasm and unique expression. We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. As organised business, we believe Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule has created a legacy that will be remembered and nurtured for generations to come.”
Phili said it is legacies such as this that will shape and mould society.
The Mercury