By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former Kaizer Chiefs player and SABC Sport football analyst Siphiwe “Dr Mnandi” Mkhonza has passed away after a long battle with a kidney infection.
Mkhonza was 44 at the time of his passing.
“The family of the former Kaizer Chiefs defender can confirm that Siphiwe Mkhonza has sadly passed on in the early hours of this morning at home,” the family said in a statement.
Mkhonza began his professional career in 1999 after he was scouted by Bloemfontein Celtic.
He later featured for Ria Stars and Golden Arrows before being signed by Chiefs in 2004.
After Chiefs, he went to SuperSport United, Maritzburg United, AmaZulu and Black Leopards in the latter stages of his career.
After hanging up his boots, he worked as a TV analyst for the SABC. However, he has been off air recently after battling with illness and sadly succumbed to it.
As Fullview, we would like to express our condolences to Mkhonza’s family, friends and the SA football fraternity.
Tributes
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa led the tributes as he posted an emotional message on social media: “A towering defender in his time, Siphiwe Mkhonza was a leader on and off the field. He also had great perspectives on the game as an analyst. I am deeply saddened by Mkhonza’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the Mkhonza family and the South African football fraternity.”
The South African Football Association (Safa),also expressed their condolences to the Mkhonza family.
“The South African Football Association sends its deepest condolences to the friends and family of Siphiwe Mkhonza. RIP legend,” Safa wrote on X.
Kaizer Chiefs tweeted: “Kaizer Chiefs are deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Siphiwe Mkhonza. “Dr. Mnandi” served the Club with distinction. As one of us, the entire Kaizer Chiefs family mourns with his loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We wish them strength and comfort. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Golden Arrows said: “Lamontville Golden Arrows would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Siphiwe Mkhonza who passed away today. Rest in Peace “Dr Mandi”
Details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced once finalized by the Mkhonza family.