Ukhozi FM presenter and Crown Gospel Music Awards founder Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was laid to rest on Sunday, August 18, after a special memorial service at the Durban International Convention Centre.
The renowned media personally was granted a special provincial send-off by eThekwini Metro.
The special provincial official funeral Category 2 includes elements of police ceremonial honours and is reserved for distinguished persons specifically designated by the president of the Republic on request by the premier of a province.
Big names from the music and the broadcast industry joined Nkambule’s family at her funeral.
KwaZulu-Natal’s newly-appointed premier, Thami Ntuli, also attended the memorial service.
eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba took to the podium to welcome mourners. During his tribute, he said that the City would continue with Nkanbule’s legacy.
“Although she has been ill for quite some time, this still came as a shock to all of us.
“As a City, we are proud of everything she has bequeath to us. As a visionary leader and successful entrepreneur she contributed immensely towards making the City of Durban live up to its tagline, ‘being Africa’s playground’.”
The mayor said through the Crown Gospel Awards, Mbokazi-Nkambule positioned Durban as a destination of choice for major events and as a seasoned radio personality, she inspired many broadcasters.
“The awards also contributed to the growth of the creative sector and most importantly, it raised the bar of the gospel music genre in our country,” he said.
“Zanele’s show on Ukhozi FM revived many people spiritually … Ukhozi will have a difficult time finding a suitable candidate to fill the gap. As a City we are proud of her and will support all efforts to preserve her legacy for future generations,” he added.
Premier Ntuli described Mbokazi-Nkambule as a visionary and pathfinder, who changed many lives through her academy, Future Leaders.
“We share the passion she had for the development of the youth. We are inspired by her pioneering spirit. There is no doubt that her vision for a progressive and prosperous KZN intersected with the vision we hold for this province,” the premier said.
The ceremony was packed with multiple performances by gospel artists.
Watch the full ceremony below.