Tributes pour in for Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule at emotional memorial service
The memorial service for Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was a touching and emotional event that celebrated the life of a remarkable woman.
Held at the God Never Fails church in Durban, the service drew people from all walks of life, unified in their shared admiration and love for a woman who touched so many hearts.
During the service, heartfelt tributes poured in from family members, including Mpendulo’s brother who described Mbokazi-Nkambule as a lover, builder, and masterpiece. He shared that Zanele's impact on the lives of those around her was nothing short of amazing. Despite the shortness of her life, Zanele's influence and the enduring love she shared with her family and friends were profoundly evident.
“Zanele was a lover, builder and a masterpiece,” said Nkambule’s brother.
Emotions run high when Kitty Mbokazi-Zulu, Mbokazi-Nkambule’s sister spoke of visiting her before she passed away.
“Every time I would enter the room, she would cry, feeling sad that she would leave me behind. She was the youngest, yet the strongest,” said her grieving sister.
She also admitted that she often avoided seeing her sister in her final days, because she couldn't bear the thought of losing her.
The memorial also featured emotional tributes from Mbokazi-Nkambule’s grandchildren, who spoke of their deep love for their grandmother. Mazwi, one of the grandchildren, tearfully recalled the pain of trying to help his grandmother during her illness.
“I tried to help her before going to school, giving her medicine. It hurt so much,” he said.
Mbokazi-Nkambule’s children expressed their gratitude for the love and strength their mother instilled in them.
“We were raised by a powerhouse. Our mother loved us dearly, and she raised us to know God,” said Yolanda.
Despite the overwhelming grief, there was also a sense of profound gratitude among Mbokazi-Nkambule’s family. Her children also spoke of the love and support they received during the three months following Mbokazi-Nkambule’s cancer diagnosis.
“This feels like a bad dream, this is a nightmare, and I can’t wait to wake up,” added Nonjabulo.
Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, Mbokazi-Nkambule’s husband, offered emotional thanks to all who supported his family during this challenging time, acknowledging family, friends, and Zanele’s fans.
“I want to say thank you to everyone, I really appreciate you all,” he said.
He also urged his children to remain strong and to keep the faith that their mother had instilled in them.
“Keep the faith that your mother taught you, hang on to that,” he advised.
In a deeply emotional moment, Nkambule spoke of the deep love and admiration he had for his wife.
“Zanele was an amazing person, she was beautiful. She loved to love too much. Everything she did, she did to the best of her abilities. It’s unbelievable that she is gone,” he said, his voice breaking with emotion.
He described her as his rock, his best friend, and his inspiration, adding, “She was my rock! Bekulithemba lami (my hope).”
In closing, Nkambule expressed his deep gratitude for the love and support his wife had given him.
“I thank God for giving me this blessing, I have no complains. Thank you for loving me, standing with me, supporting me, for praying with me, for believing in me, for bringing the best out of me. Thank you, my love,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.
The outpouring of love and respect was also shown by artists who gathered to pay their respects through music.
The musical tributes were particularly moving, with performances by renowned artists such as Ayanda Ntanzi, Nathi Sithole, Ntokozo Mngongoma, S’phumelele Mbambo, Timothy Myeni Jumbo, and many more.
IOL Lifestyle