Minister’s Support Brings Hope to Veteran Actress Struggling Financially

In a heartfelt gesture, Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has stepped in to offer financial support to veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who recently opened up about her financial challenges. Nyembe, 74, a renowned figure in the South African entertainment industry, is widely recognized for her iconic roles in Yizo Yizo, Soul City, and Isibaya. However, despite her successful career, Nyembe has faced significant financial difficulties, compounded by ongoing health issues.

 

 
In a candid admission, the seasoned actress revealed that her health struggles had placed a substantial strain on her finances, making it increasingly difficult for her to meet her basic needs. This revelation struck a chord with many South Africans, highlighting the often-overlooked plight of aging artists in the country.

In response to Nyembe’s plea, Minister McKenzie took to social media to offer his assistance. Through a video posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, McKenzie expressed his deep concern for the welfare of South African artists. He announced that he would be providing financial support to Nyembe from his personal funds and requested her banking details to facilitate the transfer.

“I am committed to improving the lives of our artists. We will fix the plight of our artists. We are already hard at work, and these are the dying days of suffering for our creatives,” McKenzie stated, underscoring his dedication to supporting South Africa’s arts community.https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/1907435016172208446?t=JMCwRLFmjj3Hjt5AU8n1bQ&s=19

His timely intervention was met with mixed reactions from the public. While many applauded McKenzie’s gesture as a noble act of kindness and support for the arts, others questioned whether the gesture was more politically motivated. Some critics wondered if the minister was leveraging the situation for personal or political gain, using Nyembe’s story to win favor with the public.
Regardless of the opinions surrounding McKenzie’s motives, his support has certainly brought much-needed attention to the plight of struggling South African artists. Nyembe’s story serves as a reminder of the financial challenges faced by many veterans in the entertainment industry, particularly those who have dedicated their lives to shaping South African culture and storytelling.

Nyembe’s contribution to the South African entertainment landscape cannot be overstated. Her performances in Yizo Yizo and Soul City made her a household name, and she continues to be celebrated for her work in the industry. However, her situation is a reflection of the harsh realities that many artists face once their active careers wind down. For Nyembe, the assistance from McKenzie offers a lifeline, allowing her to focus on her health and well-being without the added burden of financial strain.

The conversation sparked by McKenzie’s intervention raises important questions about the broader issue of supporting artists in South Africa. As the country’s creative industry continues to grow, there is an increasing need for comprehensive support systems for its talent, particularly as many artists age or experience health challenges. The spotlight on Nyembe’s story, thanks to McKenzie’s support, serves as an important moment to reflect on how society values its artists and what can be done to ensure their well-being in later years.

This development highlights the ongoing conversation about how South Africa’s government and private sectors can do more to uplift and support its creative professionals, ensuring that they are not forgotten once the limelight fades.

Kwenzo Ngcobo Celebrates His Mother on Social Media, Fans React with Affection

In a recent post on Instagram, acclaimed actor Kwenzo Ngcobo, known for his captivating role in the Showmax series The Wife, shared a beautiful photograph of his mother, prompting an outpouring of admiration from fans. The image, accompanied by the heartfelt caption “Intombi kaMapholoba,” which translates to “A queen from the Mapholoba clan,” showcased not only her stunning looks but also the deep respect and love he holds for her.

 

 

 
Fans were quick to express their awe, with many reminiscing about their own experiences with Kwenzo’s mother, recalling her as a beloved teacher during their primary school years. This connection added a nostalgic layer to the admiration, as several individuals shared fond memories of her impact on their education.

Moreover, the resemblance between Kwenzo and his mother did not go unnoticed. Commenters were delighted to point out their striking similarities, with some humorously claiming her as their “mother-in-law.” The collective sentiment was one of gratitude, with fans thanking her for raising a talented actor who continues to capture hearts on screen.

Kwenzo Ngcobo’s tribute to his mother not only highlights the bond between them but also serves as a reminder of the profound influence parents have on their children’s lives. As fans celebrate this touching moment, it is evident that the admiration extends beyond Kwenzo’s talent, encompassing the love and dedication of his mother.

Real life story of Makhadzi

She has been dubbed “The Queen of Africa,” and she is without a doubt the best performing musician of our time. Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, better known as Makhadzi Muimbi, was born on 30 June 1996 in Limpopo Province.

Recently, several concerns have been raised concerning Makhadzi’s educational history. Makhadzi did, in fact, complete her Grade 12 at Mukula Integrated School. In order to become a successful and educated vocalist, she obtained a Public Relations degree and then went on to study Drama.

Fortune favours the bold whilst working on one of her projects; a studio owner spotted her talent, and the rest was history. In 2012, Makhadzi Muimbi released Zwigevhenga. As of to date, seven recorded albums as of 2021.

Muvhango was released in 2012, Ndo Tshiyani (2013), Litshani U Tsala Murahu (2014), Muhwalo Uya Ndemela (2015) Yo Shoma (2016), Shumela Venda (2017).

 

 

 

However, in 2019 she won big when her hit “Matorokisi” topped the charts. No doubt this was her thrust into the limelight. Since then, she has been wowing Mzansi with her tracks and energetic performances. Her trust in stardom saw her dating Master KG. However, barely a year after making their affair official, the couple called it quits

Somehow it seems she was not doing well whilst she was with Master KG. After her split, she recorded singles that took Mzansi by surprise. She has capped her career with awards and some of her singles riched golden statuses. We can all agree everything changed.

She rose to become one of the most sought-after musicians, and her fees increased. It was reportedly said that Makhadzi does not accept bookings for less than R50 000. She was recently gifted with R1.5 million by Zimbabwean Finance Secretary Guvamatanga after exceeding expectations at her recent 50th birthday celebration in Zimbabwe.

She just gifted her mum with a beautiful house in Limpopo. However, a few years later, she stunned Mzansi with her million-dollar property. To keep up with her star position, she has lavished herself with exotic cars in recent years.

She, on the other hand, has been able to give back to the community through donations and community semakaMakhadzi

Where to next? Mama Joy ditches Royal AMMama Joy – real name Joy Chauke – has seemingly ditched Royal AM in the wake of the club’s imminent sale. This comes weeks after former CEO MaMkhize had much of her assets seized amid allegations of over R40 million in tax evasion.

In 2021, Mama Joy infamously left Orlando Pirates – after 30 years of loyal support – to back Royal AM instead.
DID MAMA JOY DITCH ROYAL AM?

On her X account, Mama Joy has hinted that she may have left Royal AM, which has since been expelled from the PSL.

 
Although she denied ever receiving payment from the club as their unofficial ambassador, Chauke told a follower that her French husband was now “providing” for her.

To another, Mama Joy revealed that she had changed her X profile picture from one wearing Royal AM regalia to another of her with her husband.

The soccer supporter also reposted an open letter from Royal AM fans to MaMkhize.

A part of it read: “We are here for you; we want you to know that we are thinking of you and sending you all loveWe know words may not be enough to ease the pain, but we want you to know that we will always support you.

“We know that you are a strong woman and a resilient person, and we have no doubt that you will navigate through this difficult time and emerge stronger than ever.”
MAMKHIZE BREAKS SILENCE

Days before Mama Joy’s apparent departure, MaMkhize broke her silence for the first time since announcing the news of the club.

On Instagram, she posted a picture of herself in her luxury home: “My side of the story doesn’t matter anymore. Life happened. It hurt; I healed.”

Hinting that her circle friends have seemingly abandoned her, she added: “But most importantly, I learned who deserves a seat at my table and who will never sit again.”

The post is the first time since January that MaMkhize has publicly spoken about her tax drama. In a statement earlier this year, the Royal AM boss apologised to players over reports of their non-payment. It also revealed that the club was under curatorship and was navigating the way forward.

Sihle honours daughter through pageant dream!

TV presenter and activist Sihle Sibisi is now a beauty queen.

Sihle (40), who hosts Vimba on Moja Love, is a finalist for Mrs Curve South Africa 2025.

 

 

 
She is also known for speaking up against ‘fake’ pastors.

Sihle is dedicating her new journey to her late daughter, Khanyisile Seleke.

The activist spoke to Daily Sun about her new journey.

“She passed away on 11 January 2024 at 10 years old. She died from a ruptured brain aneurysm and was a pageant queen. This opportunity came on my lap, and I grabbed it with both hands.

“I’m doing it for her, so this journey means a lot to me. It’s personal because I’m not just doing it for fame or anything else. I’m doing it because, for me, it’s an honour, my daughter,” said Sihle.

ALSO READ: Zenande speaks out after saying ‘I Do’ to Pirates star!

She said Khanyisile’s legacy has influenced her participation in the pageant.

“I’m alert and learning every day. I mean, I used to be a pageant mum, but now I’m the mum who’s in the pageant. However, this is an empowerment programme for married women and women with kids. So, the role of my late daughter has influenced me in a positive way where everything that comes from me is a challenge.

“It’s a challenge in a way that I tell myself I’m not going to give up. As much as I may not understand sometimes, I push because I know wherever she is, she’s clapping for me and saying, ‘Well done, mommy’,” she said.

Sihle will focus on her two passionate projects.

“I’m the founder of a non-profit organisation called Kwanele Foundation, which advocates for and stands against gender-based violence and femicide holistically. I’m also the founder of the Khanyisile Paediatric Foundation for brain aneurysm awareness.

“So, this platform will be giving me a higher level to amplify issues regarding gender-based violence and femicide. Also, it’ll place me on higher ground to educate the masses about what a ruptured brain aneurysm is. In South Africa, there isn’t much education about that. So, I’m learning from the Boston Aneurysm Foundation that 1 in 50 people is walking around with an unruptured aneurysm. So, these are causes that are close to my heart,” she said.

MAMFUNDISI Lo Sithole wants people to know abazalwane can also have fun.

She just joined the new season of the Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD) and said she will show there’s more to Christians.

Lo, whose real name is Lorraine (40), is from Ngongoma in KZN and she and husband lead the Discovery Church.

 
She spoke to Daily Sun about herself and why she joined the housewives.

“My husband is a pastor, and I’m now a pastor as well. We have two kids. We have a church in Durban and are entrepreneurs. As a family, we do a lot of things. When you see Lo, don’t expect to be serious. I love laughing, and I’m playful.

“Although we are pastors, we love people. We’re not like those pastors who don’t converse or show love to the church. We’re not excluded from everyone else. We also have a school, and construction company, and own properties,” she said.

Lo hopes Christians, especially women, will learn from her.

“I joined the RHOD because I wanted to have a life-changing experience and show people the reality of being a pastor’s wife. To show that I’m also human.
“I wanted to have that experience and impact Christian ladies to open themselves up. They must enjoy their lives. I’m not the kind of person who sits on the throne and judges people, which is why I want the best for people. I want viewers to see that life can be lived to the fullest regardless of whether you’re a pastor or not,” she said.

The housewife said she is aware that people will judge her decision to join the show.

“I did think people would talk about me, but I’m not doing it for people. I’m doing it for myself. Even though they are judging me, they probably wish they’d be in this position I’m in. I’m not doing anything bad. My understanding is that people will always talk, whether I am perfect or not, people will still talk.”

Lo said this was the right time for her to join the show.

“This wasn’t my first referral. When Sorisha approached me last season, I said no. When she approached me again this year, I started thinking about whether I really wanted to, or not. I then decided to do it.

“There’s so much to learn. People tend to put a manual on how women should live their lives. I want people to open their eyes to say before pastorship, we are also people.”

The RHOD Season 5 airs on Showmax every Friday.

Amapiano star Scotts Maphuma opens up about the dark side of fame

Amapiano sensation Scotts Maphuma has given fans an unfiltered look into the downside of being in the spotlight. The Biri Marung hitmaker, who skyrocketed to fame after his song became a viral sensation, has revealed that his newfound recognition comes with its own set of challenges.

While many artists dream of making it big in the music industry, Scotts’ recent remarks show that fame isn’t always as glamorous as it seems. The singer admitted that constant public attention has made him long for the simple pleasures of normal life.

 

 

 
A Loss of Privacy
Scotts expressed frustration over the lack of privacy that comes with being a public figure. In a post reshared by blogger @maphephandaba, he shared his deep longing for normalcy, writing:

“I wish I were normal again so I could do things like shopping at a mall without anyone talking to me.”

This simple statement resonated with many fans and fellow celebrities, as it highlights the struggle of losing personal space and the ability to go about daily life unnoticed.

Dineo Ranaka claims Cwecwe’s mother’s accident was a targeted attack

Dineo Ranaka speaks out on the accident involving Cwecwe’s mother, calling it a hit.

 

 

 
As South Africans rally behind Cwecwe, the young girl who was reportedly raped at Bergview College, shocking news emerged that her mother was involved in a car accident.

The incident happened on Wednesday while she was on her way to an official meeting with investigators handling her daughter’s case.

The circumstances of the crash have sparked widespread speculation, with many questioning whether it was a mere accident or something more sinister.

Taking to social media, Dineo Ranaka made it clear she believes the incident was intentional.

“SOUTH AFRICANS!!! So are we all going to pretend as if this was not a hit? So is this a message ‘they’ (and we know who THEY are) trying to send that WE HAVE NO RIGHT TO FIGHT FOR OUR CHILDREN????” she wrote.

She also called on South African fathers to take a stand, urging them to reclaim their power and protect their families.

“Where are the fathers in this country? Where is your ROAR to instill fear back into perpetrators that NOT WITH YOUR WIVES! NOT WITH YOUR SISTERS! NOT WITH YOUR WOMEN and CERTAINLY MOST DEFINITELY NOT WITH YOUR CHILDREN!!!!”

Dineo went on to compare the situation to the assassination of Chris Hani, expressing outrage over what she sees as an attempt to silence Cwecwe’s mother.

She demanded answers, questioning how organizations like AfriForum continue to operate with political influence in the country.

“IT IS ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!! This act is an indication that there is SERIOUS GUILT where this crime has been committed… I CHOOSE, WITH MY FREE WILL, TO SEE THIS AS A HIT UNTIL PROVEN OTHERWISE,” she declared.

Babes Wodumo has shared heartbreaking details about the last moments she spent with her late husband, Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo, before his passing. Mampintsha, a well-known musician, died on December 24, 2022, after suffering a minor stroke.

The emotional revelation came during the latest episode of her reality show, Wena Wodumo, aired on Moja Love. The gqom star recalled the difficult experience of watching her husband’s health decline.
Financial Struggles and Hospitalization

 

 

 

 

 
Babes Wodumo revealed that when Mampintsha was first admitted to King Edward Hospital, they faced financial difficulties as they did not have medical aid.

“We said we don’t have medical aid, we will use cash. While he was in King Edward Hospital, we received money. It was about R150,000,” she shared.

With the financial support, they were able to transfer Mampintsha to Durdoc Hospital, where he was placed in the ICU. Babes stayed by his side throughout his hospitalization, spending nights at the hospital to be close to him.
The Heartbreaking Final Goodbye

In a deeply emotional moment, Babes Wodumo recounted how she waved at her husband before stepping away briefly to take a bath.

“I covered myself with a blanket, and I looked over at him and waved, and he waved back. I then thought, let me go bath. When I left to bath, he died,” she revealed.

Her words painted a picture of the painful loss she endured, having been with him throughout his illness, only to lose him the moment she stepped away.
Adjusting to Life Without Mampintsha

After Mampintsha’s funeral on December 30, 2022, Babes Wodumo had to navigate life as a single mother, raising their young son alone.

Her sister, Nondumiso Simelane, expressed how difficult it was for Babes to accept his passing.

“The sad thing is the bed is empty, and she needs to take up more responsibilities. Babes is strong. What I like about her is she didn’t change her character,” Nondumiso said.

Even in her grief, Babes found herself instinctively calling out for Mampintsha, a sign of the deep connection they shared.
A Legacy of Love and Music

Babes Wodumo’s father also reflected on the significant impact Mampintsha had on her career, acknowledging the role he played in shaping her into the successful musician she is today.

“He trained and taught her because Babes used to be a model in eThekwini. Before I knew it, there goes Babes into music with Mampintsha. I will never forget him because he groomed my child to be the successful star she is today,” he said.

As Babes Wodumo continues to navigate life without Mampintsha, she remains dedicated to her music and raising their son, honoring his memory through her journey.

In the telenovela Isitha: The Enemy, she portrays Martha, a housekeeper. She also appears in the reality show Giants of the City on Moja LOVE. Ontiretse Radipabe tells ZiMoja on navigating popularity while she living with a disability.

Bright, funny, and lively Ontiretse was raised in a variety of places, despite being born in Atteridgeville, Tshwane.

 

 

 

 

 

“I moved a lot with my mother. I initially lived in Atteridgeville then we moved to Mpumalanga, Balfour, after that we moved to Limpopo. I did grade eight to ten in Limpopo. In 2022, I moved to Johannesburg to pursue my dream of becoming an actor,” she said.

She has always wanted to be on TV: “I started my journey on YOTV and with persistence, I managed to get an acting role on a show called The Black Door on ETV, which later did a spin-off and became Isitha: The Enemy. ” We have finished season 1 and we are starting with season 2. I am loving every moment because being on screen is all I’ve wanted to do.”“I wouldn’t call them challenges, I would call them learning opportunities. People do not trust that I can do very things mainly because of my disability. Having to prove myself to people and opportunities became a bit of a challenge but it built me to be the person I am today.” Ontiretse said

“Some people would make fun of me or say mean things to me but I used that as a wagon to motivate myself and tell myself that I am also human and I am able, People need to educate themselves about disabilities and how to treat people with disabilities. I am, however, very patient, and I’ve grown to understand that in this world there are different people and that we are all not the same mentally.I am a very happy person and I use my positive energy to drive me and build me to become a better person,” she said

Ontiretse, who is presently in a relationship, took her time to find true love because she was searching for a genuine partner.She intends to expand in the TV industry this year.

“I am in a relationship,Men will always be men. You always have to build trust and it takes time and patience and hope they don’t disappoint you.”

” I want to learn more and expose myself to good opportunities behind the scenes. I am very proud to be who I am. I stand for boldness and always using what you have, less complaining,and always turning negative to positive.”