Former Ukhozi FM presenter Mandla “Njinji” Magwaza was laid to rest in Inanda, north of Durban, on Saturday, 31 January, as family, friends, colleagues and fans gathered to bid farewell to a beloved radio personality whose voice and energy left a lasting mark on South African broadcasting.
Magwaza, who was 42 years old, passed away on Saturday, 24 January following complications related to his right arm. It was revealed that he had been scheduled to undergo surgery on Tuesday, 27 January, but sadly did not live to see the operation. His passing sent shockwaves through the radio industry and among loyal listeners who had followed his journey for years.
The funeral service, held at Etafuleni Sport Ground, was attended by a wide range of mourners, including current and former Ukhozi FM presenters, musicians, actors and members of the public. Rather than being only a moment of mourning, the service also became a celebration of Magwaza’s life. Music, singing and dance filled the venue as colleagues and friends honoured him in a way that reflected his vibrant personality and love for entertainment.
Close friend Sihle “DJ Mngadi” Mngadi spoke openly about Magwaza’s health struggles, explaining that he had been experiencing complications affecting his entire right arm, from the shoulder down to the fingers. According to Mngadi, Magwaza had been struggling to use his hand for some time. He added that, although Magwaza was sometimes reluctant to seek medical help, his friends continued to encourage him to do so, and he eventually agreed to receive treatment.
“He was still getting treatment from the doctors, and he passed away on Saturday, 24 January,” Mngadi said. “He was booked to go into theatre for surgery on his arm, but God did not allow that. Because it is God’s will, we can’t say anything.”
Among those who attended the funeral were Ukhozi FM business manager Lwazi Mthabela and presenters Dudu “Lady D” Khoza, Zama Mseleku, Mroza Buthelezi and Nkosinathi “Dr Love” Mshengu. Former Ukhozi FM personalities, including Linda “Mr Magic” Sibiya, Ngizwe Mchunu, former content producer Sma Mathibeli and ex-programmes manager Zandile Tembe, were also present to pay their respects. Well-known musicians such as Jumbo, Dumi Mkokstad and Khuzani Mpungose also attended the service.
Magwaza’s journey at Ukhozi FM began behind the scenes, where he worked as a technical producer for the breakfast show presented by Linda Sibiya and Sbonga Mngadi Zungu. He later joined the midmorning show *Jabulujule*, hosted by Lady D, where his on-air presence quickly won over listeners. Lady D often called him by his clan name, “Njinji,” and regularly gave him the microphone to speak, a move that helped introduce him to a wider audience.
His growing popularity eventually led Ukhozi FM to give him more opportunities, and he went on to host his own shows, becoming a familiar and trusted voice on the station. Lady D’s loyal listeners, known as amaShiellas, were also among the mourners who attended the funeral to bid him a final farewell.
As he is laid to rest, Mandla “Njinji” Magwaza is remembered not only for his contribution to radio, but for his warmth, humour and the joy he brought to many South Africans through the airwaves.