DJ Zinhle, known for her hit song Umlilo with Rethabile Khumalo, paid a deeply emotional tribute to the late Winnie Khumalo, a beloved actress and Afropop singer. In a tearful moment, Zinhle broke down in sadness while speaking about the impact Winnie had on her and her family.
During her tribute, Zinhle recited part of the song’s lyrics: “Uthando lwakho, Ludala imilingi kushukum’sosha,” which translates to “Your love creates miracles, the lame shall walk.” She found comfort in the thought that the same God who worked miracles through Winnie’s love would guide them through this painful time.
Zinhle, visibly shaken, spoke from the heart. “The same God is going to take us through this,” she said. “If He is able to create miracles, He will take us through this. I’m a praying mother, and I have two kids. But you always called me ‘Mom’ and you’d cry. Sometimes I would panic and not know what to do, and I’d call Winnie. So who am I going to call now?”
She continued to offer her support to Rethabile and Thando, Winnie’s children, telling them, “Rethabile and Thando, we are here and we love you. The shoes we have to fill are big, and the work is a lot, but we’re here, and we love you. We’re praying for you. You raised a child who lost their parent. I know the pain of losing a parent. God must keep you and give you the strength you need so you can face this situation.”
Zinhle’s tribute didn’t just stop at comforting her family; it was also a heartfelt promise to Winnie. “Winnie, I hope we never let you down,” she said. “I love you so much. As much as Winnie said, ‘I just want to live my life,’ please continue, Thando and Rethabile, live your life.”
Social media users expressed their support for Zinhle’s tribute. @Beevatar tweeted, “That was heartfelt @DJZinhle. Beautiful, comforting words. Strength to the family.” @PelisaS added, “Beautiful words. Strength to all of them.” Others noted Zinhle’s nervousness during the tribute, with @DavidMaqabane sharing, “She delivered, however, was just nervous and shaking. She would have done exceptionally well beyond this if a close friend was standing alongside her. Funeral is not like a social event.” @GlitEdgee commented, “Zinhle is so nervous. She’s thinking in English and delivering in isiZulu, which is why it’s so shaken. Consolation is good.”
Despite the sadness and nerves, Zinhle’s tribute was a powerful expression of love, loss, and strength for Winnie and her family.
DJ Zinhle pays tribute to the late Winnie Khumalo. Zinhle has a hit song, 'umlilo' with the actress and afropop singer's daughter Rethabile Khumalo. #DStv403 #eNCA pic.twitter.com/ay3aNGHofH
— eNCA (@eNCA) January 18, 2025
