Gospel Music Pioneer Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule Passes Away at 52 Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, the visionary founder of the Crown Gospel Awards and a beloved Ukhozi FM radio presenter, has died at the age of 52 after a battle with lung cancer. Her husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, announced her passing in the early hours of Monday morning at Parklands Hospital in Durban.

The news of Mbokazi-Nkambule's death has sent shockwaves through South Africa's gospel music community and beyond. Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, expressed deep sadness upon learning of her passing. "Mam Zanele was incredibly passionate about gospel music," MEC Chiloane stated. "Her life's work and the organization she created gave the genre that brings joy, hope, and healing to so many a great platform to shine."

Mbokazi-Nkambule's legacy is most notably embodied in the Crown Gospel Awards, which she founded to celebrate and showcase the best of gospel music. The awards have become a cornerstone event in South Africa's music calendar, providing opportunities for undiscovered talent to be identified, developed, and reach wider audiences. In 2023, the Gauteng Province hosted the Crown Gospel Awards for the first time since their inception, a testament to Mbokazi-Nkambule's visionary and bold leadership. The Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation fondly reflected on this successful partnership.

MEC Chiloane extended his condolences to Mbokazi-Nkambule's family and the broader gospel music community: "My sincerest condolences to Mam Zanele's husband, Bishop Nkambule, her children, the Crown Gospel Awards family, Ukhozi FM, and all those who supported and followed her work. May her beautiful soul rest in God's eternal peace."

As the news of her passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from across the country, highlighting Mbokazi-Nkambule's significant contributions to gospel music and broadcasting. Her work has left an indelible mark on South Africa's cultural landscape, and her vision will continue to inspire future generations of gospel artists and enthusiasts.

The family has expressed gratitude for the support received during Mbokazi-Nkambule's illness. Further details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.