Kwaito star Mapaputsi’s family reveals the cause of death
The family of Kwaito artist Mapaputsi, whose real name is Sandile Ngwenya, has confirmed the cause of death of the 45-year-old musician.
The South African music industry is grieving the loss of beloved kwaito artist Sandile Ngwenya, widely known as Mapaputsi.
KWAITO LEGEND: CAUSE OF DEATH
Mapaputsi’s family confirms in a statement to IOL that the music legend passed away on Thursday evening in hospital following a short illness.
The family also expresses their appreciation for the outpouring support and requests privacy to deal with his passing.
“Whilst the family appreciate the immense outpouring of support, love and condolences, the family would like to request for some space and privacy in processing the news and making plans for his burial.”
“All details for the funeral and memorial services will be communicated in due time. We plead to please continue to put the Ngwenya family in your prayers in these most difficult times,” reads the statement.
Zimoja revealed in May that the fan-favourite South African kwaito star was bedridden at his Soweto home.
A source close to the musician revealed to the publication that Ngwenya fell ill towards the end of 2023.
His manager Busi Kunene confirmed to TshisaLIVE that the kwaito musician died on Thursday night, 5 September.
TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR MAPAPUTSI
Well-known rapper Priddy Ugly shared a picture of himself and Mapaputsi and captioned:
“Rest In Power to the original HONNE, The original NTJA’KA, The biggest Dawg. MAPAPUTSI 🐕🙏🏽.”
A fan of the musician, @Mo_Magoda wrote on: “Mapaputsi passing away on a Friday is legendary man. Woza Friday was one of the best hits he ever made. RIP to the legend. 😭😭😭😭”
@TebogoDitshego said: “A towering acacia has fallen with the sudden passing of Kwaito legend. Mapaputsi, leaving a void that echoes in the rich landscape of South African music.”