The tragic death of South African musician Lizwi Wokuqala, who was killed in a car accident alongside Malome Vector and videographer Musa Damos Nkodo, has cast a shadow over the music community. As the family grapples with their loss, they are now facing the daunting challenge of affording a dignified burial for the young star.
Lizwi, who had been gaining recognition as an up-and-coming talent in the South African music scene, had not yet achieved financial stability. According to family representative Stanley Khoza, Lizwi was just beginning to make a name for himself and had not accumulated significant wealth before his untimely death. “Lizwi was starting in the industry, he had not yet made money. He had just gained popularity as a promising upcoming talent,” Khoza said.
The family has issued a heartfelt plea for financial assistance to cover the burial expenses. “We are pleading with local businesspeople to assist us with any contribution or assistance to make sure that he gets a dignified funeral. Anything will be highly appreciated,” Khoza added.
The burial is planned for this Sunday, but the family is struggling to meet the costs involved. According to Zimoja, the deceased’s mother is unemployed and Lizwi was the primary breadwinner for the household. The estimated cost for the funeral—covering the coffin, undertaker, sound system, and food—is approximately R100,000.
The family has set up a bank account to receive donations and is also appealing to the KZN government for support. “We have a bank account of the mother. We just need to cover the expenses for the coffin, the undertaker, sound, and food. We are also pleading to the KZN government to assist in resolving this challenge for the family,” Khoza stated.
As the community mourns the loss of Lizwi Wokuqala, the call for financial aid underscores the broader issue of supporting artists and their families in times of need. Contributions from individuals and businesses alike are crucial in ensuring that Lizwi receives the dignified farewell he deserves.
In other news – President Emmerson Mnangagwa reappoints Simelisizwe Sibanda amid controversy
On Wednesday, 31 July, President Emmerson Mnangagwa reappointed Simelisizwe Sibanda as the Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology Development. The appointment, effective immediately, comes after Sibanda was dismissed from the position on 1 July 2024.
Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya, confirmed the reappointment in a statement. Rushwaya noted that Sibanda’s pardon followed his public apology and commitment to avoid similar actions in the future. However, the statement did not specify the exact nature of the misconduct for which Sibanda had apologized. Read More
