Mourners gathered at the SABC offices in Durban to pay their respects to the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a broadcaster, businesswoman, author, and beloved figure in the gospel music community. According to ZiMoja, the memorial service drew a crowd deeply touched by her influence, with many reflecting on the profound impact she had on their lives.
The KwaZulu-Natal government acknowledged the significant loss to the province. “We have really lost a treasure in the industry, a friend and founder of the Crown Gospel Awards. She was different from many people in the industry. She never left a place without praying—she was a praying warrior,” said eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba. He added, “Besides being a radio broadcaster, she was a mother and was loved by many in KwaZulu-Natal. MaZet left us at a bad time when we needed people to stand firm for the Christian religion. KZN is where a lot of dirt and chaos is happening.”
Her sister, Kitty Mbokazi-Zulu, expressed her grief while acknowledging that Zanele is now at peace. “She would cry, feeling sorry for me. Let us allow her to rest,” Zulu said. “You know, Zanele was always dressed impeccably. She had a great sense of humour and she loved family. We loved her until the end.”
Her grandchildren also shared tearful memories, emphasising how much they will miss her presence. “We are grateful that she taught us prayer, because that is all we have right now in this time of need,” they said.
Family members recalled Zanele’s unique qualities and her deep spirituality. “She loved herself and was a lady. Even when you offered her something, she took her time and would look at it first and decide if it was something she wanted. She loved praying and joined the church choir early in life,” Weh Harris remembered. “In the 1980s, she joined another choir and became a leader at a young age.”
Harris further highlighted Zanele’s intelligence and leadership, which enabled her to create the Crown Gospel Awards. “She always shared her gift with others. Zanele was loving and smart from a young age. She loved her family and would drop anything to be with her loved ones in their time of need.”
