2016 was rough! We spare a thought for all the greats we lost this year.
I think we can all agree that 2016 was not the best year and we’re ready to say goodbye and ring in 2017 with more positive vibes.
But, before we move on to brighter things in the New Year, we need to pay our respects to the greats we lost this year.
Mandoza
17 January 1978 – 18 September 2016
We all still remember the shock the country woke up to that Sunday morning upon hearing the heartbreaking news that one of our vanguard Kwaito stars had lost his battle to cancer. The artist was 38 when he passed away. Mandoza will never be forgotten and we will forever dance to his hits.
Gugu Zulu
13 May 1978 – 18 July 2016
One of the most tragic deaths in recent years, the country mourned one of our best racing car drivers. He succumbed while he and his wife attempted to summit Mount Kilimanjaro as part of Trek 4 Mandela, they were raising funds for Caring 4 Girls. It was a 6 day expedition and he was updating his social media accounts regularly as they progressed. Zulu was 38 years old at the time of his untimely death.
Nyembezi Kunene
1958 – 2016
Mzansi was devastated at the loss of a veteran actor who we had grown accustomed to seeing on our screens. With an acting career spanning more than 20 years, his presence will surely be missed.
Koyo Bala
1979 – 2016
Most of the country was devastated to hear news of beloved 3Sum member, Koyo’s passing. He was 37 years old when he lost his battle with Cancer at a hospital in Cape Town. He will always be remembered as the fun loving entertainer we all grew to love over the years.
Sfiso Ncwane
1979 – 2016
We’re so sad to have to include the gospel giant in this list. News broke of the 37-year-old’s passing on Monday, 5 December and tributes poured in for the beloved gospel singer. He will be sorely missed especially over this festive season.