Founder of Crown Gospel Music Zanele Mbokazi Succumbed to Lung Cancer At 52!

Zanele Mbokazi, the presenter of Ukhozi FM, passed away on Monday at Parklands Hospital in Durban. The star had been diagnosed with lung cancer previously in May this year.

Zanele’s husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, shared the tragic news of his wife’s demise in a statement that read:

It is with a heavy heart that we, the Nkambule and Mbokazi family, announce the passing of our dearly beloved Ms Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of Crown Gospel Music Awards and Ukhozi FM radio personality.

Further, Ukhozi FM also confirmed the star’s passing on Monday in an Instagram post.

The 53-year-old radio personality was prominent in the South African entertainment industry, particularly in the gospel music scene.

The star had been open about her battle with lung cancer with the public ever since the diagnosis was made public.

Zanele’s Declining Health Condition Affected Her Ability to Perform Well on Her Shows!

Zanele Mbokazi’s declining health first became evident when she fell ill, faced voice difficulties, and was unable to complete her show, Eshilo, on April 21.

This situation led her colleague, Thokozani MaMkhize Ndlovu, to step in and fill her role at the show.

So painful! Yhini Madoda u Zanele Mbokazi! pic.twitter.com/nHK39qfLnr

— Simphiwe (@DrMandlesilo) August 12, 2024

According to News24, Bishop Mpendulo later revealed that Zanele had been diagnosed with lung cancer on UKhozi FM’s breakfast show, Vuka Mzansi saying:

During the operation, doctors discovered that Zanele has lung cancer, but through it all, we trust God.

Further, it was disclosed that Zanele had undergone minor surgeries for shortness of breath.

In response to the news, fans showed their love and support for the star’s recovery, to which she later responded with acknowledgment in a Facebook post:

Due to her illness, Zanele’s event KwaZulu World Carnival was postponed which was originally scheduled for May.

Rofhiwa Nethengwe of the World Powerhouse later talked about Zanele’s recovery in an interview, saying:

We would like to reassure people that Zanele Mbokazi is recovering well and together with the team, is planning for the big event. As a result, the Crown Gospel Music Awards will be held in November.

Unfortunately, on August 8, 2024, the world lost one of the gospel music industry’s legendary stars.

Our deepest condolences go out to Zanele Mbokazi’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.