The recent passing of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a beloved Ukhozi FM radio presenter, has left a significant void in the hearts of many. After bravely battling stage 4 cancer, Mbokazi-Nkambule was honored with a provincial funeral last Saturday at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban. The event drew an outpouring of love and respect from friends, family, and a notable presence of gospel artists who gathered to pay their final respects.
In a touching display of solidarity, prominent gospel artists such as Jumbo, Ayanda Ntanzi, Dumi Mkokstad, and Dr. Rebecca Malope collectively donated a cow to the Mbokazi-Nkambule family. This gesture, presented to her husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, during the memorial service, symbolized the deep bonds of friendship and shared faith within the gospel music community.
However, despite the solemnity of the occasion and the heartfelt contributions made, a sense of dissatisfaction has surfaced among the gospel artists who attended the funeral. Several artists, speaking under anonymity to ZiMoja, expressed their displeasure regarding the treatment they received during the event. Their grievances mainly revolved around the catering arrangements, which they felt were handled poorly and left them feeling disrespected.
Many of the artists left the funeral hungry, claiming they were denied food while dignitaries and family members were served first. One artist expressed their frustration by stating, “It’s disheartening for artists who have given so much to be overlooked at such a significant event. We’re not asking for special treatment, but it’s only humane to ensure that all mourners are offered food.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the way supporters and contributors are treated during important communal events.
Beyond the issue of catering, the artists also voiced concerns regarding the fate of the cow they donated. There was a shared unease about the lack of communication concerning how the cow was utilized, with some artists feeling that their contribution had not been appropriately acknowledged. “We donated the cow with the hope that it would be used to ensure that everyone who came to pay their respects was well taken care of,” remarked another artist.
Adding to the frustration was the revelation that the food for the event was not available at the ICC but was instead located miles away in La Mercy. This logistical oversight left many attendees, including the gospel artists, feeling neglected and frustrated, overshadowing the goodwill and generosity they had shown.
The situation sheds light on the importance of proper event planning, especially when it involves honoring someone as respected as Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. While her loss is undeniably profound, it is equally crucial to ensure that those who come to honor her memory are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. As the community continues to mourn, there is a need for reflection on how such events are organized, ensuring that the contributions of supporters, especially those who play a prominent role, are recognized and valued appropriately.
The incident serves as a reminder that in times of grief, attention to detail in how mourners are treated can make a significant difference in their experience, especially when they have come to offer support and pay their final respects.