South African Gqom star Babes Wodumo created a heartwarming moment during her performance at the EFF Youth Day celebration held in Umlazi, Durban, on Monday, June 16, 2025. The singer reunited with her late husband Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo’s father, Thembinkosi Maphumulo, during the festivities, creating an emotional scene that moved many of those in attendance.
While performing at the event, Babes noticed Thembinkosi in the crowd. Without hesitation, she stopped to greet him, gently escorting him to the VIP section so they could share some private time together. The touching reunion came as a surprise to many, especially given the complex history that Babes and her late husband’s family have shared over the years.
Speaking to TshisaLIVE after the event, Babes explained that their meeting on that specific day carried deep personal meaning. June 16 isn’t just Youth Day in South Africa—it’s also the birthday of her and Mampintsha’s son, Sponge. “June 16 is always bittersweet for me,” Babes revealed. “Every year I have to work on that day because it’s one of the busiest periods for us artists, even when Mampintsha was still alive.”
Despite the challenges that come with balancing motherhood and a demanding career, Babes expressed how meaningful it was to see her late husband’s father, especially in Umlazi—Mampintsha’s childhood neighbourhood. “It reminded me of him calling his father ‘Mseshi.’ What touched me the most was meeting him on his son’s birthday. It just felt right,” she added.
Although Babes Wodumo and Thembinkosi don’t see each other regularly, the warmth and affection between them were evident. The two spent the afternoon reminiscing about Mampintsha’s life, sharing memories that brought both laughter and tears. The emotional encounter turned into a symbolic tribute to the late Big Nuz star, strengthening family ties during what was clearly a difficult, yet significant, day for Babes.
The reunion didn’t just serve as a moment of personal reflection for Babes Wodumo—it resonated with fans as well. Many took to social media to praise Babes for her grace and maturity, commending her for honouring her late husband’s legacy by reconnecting with his family, particularly on such a meaningful day.
In other entertainment news, popular reality TV star and polygamist Musa Mseleku expressed his gratitude after his family show Uthando Nes’thembu received a nomination at the Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards. Speaking proudly of the achievement, Mseleku credited his family for the show’s continued success. “We wouldn’t have Uthando Nes’thembu without my family,” he said. “They deserve every single nomination that comes their way.”
Both these moments—Babes Wodumo’s reunion with her father-in-law and Musa Mseleku’s celebration of family achievements—highlight the importance of family connections, whether in moments of loss or triumph.
As Youth Day came to a close, Babes Wodumo’s emotional reunion reminded South Africans of the beauty of healing, unity, and remembering loved ones who shaped their lives.