By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Friends, family, and fans gathered to pay respects to the beloved kwaito legend, Sandile “Mapaputsi” Ngwenya, remembered for his warmth, humour, and gentlemanly demeanour.
Mapaputsi passed away on September 5 after battling an illness, his family confirmed in a statement. His death was announced the following day.
Hailing from Zola, Mapaputsi went from being a back-up vocalist for music greats such as Sis Rebecca Malope and Vuyo Mokoena to becoming one of SA’s greatest Kwaito Superstar.
Friends and family gathered at his memorial service at Eyethu Shopping Centre in Machaba Drive in Mofolo, Soweto on September 12.
Mapaputsi is well known for his iconic hit “Izinja”, and his 2001 album “Izinja” achieved huge success including two Metro FM Awards in 2002 for Best Kwaito Artist and Best Kwaito Song.
Among the attendees were prominent figures from various fields, including Ronnie Nyakale, Mercy Pakela, Israel Makoe, Motlatsi Mafatshe, DJ Sbu, Nhlanhla Lux, Dumisani Dlamini, Jairus Nkwe, former Joburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, and Mzambiya.
Skhumbuzo Tshabalala, speaking on behalf of Mapaputsi’s friends, reflected on their shared experiences, highlighting his ever-present joy.
“I never saw him angry. He was always happy. I’m grateful for having him in my life. I’ll always remember him,” Tshabalala said.
The mother of Mapaputsi’s kids, Nitty Nhlapo, expressed her grief and need for support, acknowledging the challenge of raising teenagers alone.
“I never imagined I would be raising them alone. My children are hurting, and this week has been incredibly tough. I ask for help from Sandile’s friends in raising his boys,” she pleaded.
Mapaputsi’s eldest daughter, Nhlanhla Ngwenya, remembered her father as a loving presence who lived life to the fullest.
“I was like his brand. I’m proud to be his daughter. His love and humour left a significant impact on me,” she said.
His youngest daughter, Mbali, cherished the moments they shared, reflecting on his constant expressions of love.
“His words of love will keep me going through tough times. I’m incredibly proud of him,” she said.
Convicted kwaito star Brickz penned a heartfelt letter to his late friend Mapaputsi which was read out at the musician’s funeral.
“The first time I met Mapaputsi was through a friend, Kutloano, who used to own a salon where I’d do my hair because I was in a choir, Sandile saw a soldier in me, our friendship wasn’t perfect we had disagreement and the one that stood out was me not being credited on his debut single Izinja, but a few years later we were in on good terms. He was a brother to me,” wrote Brickz.