Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late wife, Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, on the first anniversary of her death. The beloved Ukhozi FM and television personality passed away from lung cancer on 12 August 2024, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans, family, and colleagues.
On Tuesday, 12 August 2025, Bishop Nkambule took to Instagram to post a photo of Zanele in hospital during her final days. His caption reflected both his deep love and enduring faith:
“It was on this day, August 12th, 2024, when my beautiful wife Zanele Mbokazi transitioned to glory. The memory of the righteous is blessed. Her impact is still felt. Her voice is not silenced even in her absence. The children and I are still living in the goodness of God. I know we will meet in that glorious resurrection morning where all the saints of God will gather. Keep resting, my love. Till then. . We are not sad, but we are in pain.”
The touching post drew an outpouring of support from fellow celebrities, friends, and members of the public. Actress Sthandiwe Kgoroge echoed Nkambule’s words, writing: “We are not sad, but we are in pain. Forever loved. ”
Others shared how Zanele’s passing had touched their lives in unexpected ways. Social media user Nolwazi Nkeane revealed that she had never cried so much for someone she had never met, only to later lose her own husband. “It is true when you say we are not sad, but we are in pain,” she reflected.
Paty Magadla offered simple condolences: “May her soul continue to rest in peace,” while Anelly Mbangiso prayed for God to strengthen Bishop Nkambule and his family. Dr Nelisiwe assured him: “She will be forever loved . We are with you and the family, Bishop.”
Messages continued to pour in, with some recalling Zanele’s legacy of faith, resilience, and dedication to her craft. One supporter, Umkhokheli, shared: “This still feels like a dream. It still hurts. You loved your wife; she loved you until the end. It was such an honour witnessing such pure and intense love.”
Others offered prayers, comfort, and blessings, such as CloudEventsFlorist, who wrote: “May the spirit of the living God continue to bless you with overwhelming comfort and bandage all your wounds, in Jesus’ name.”
Before her passing, Zanele, who founded the Crown Gospel Music Awards, had been open about her lung cancer diagnosis. In one of her final public messages, she drew inspiration from the story of an Olympic runner who never gave up, vowing to fight her illness with the same determination. Her unwavering faith and hope inspired many during her battle.
Now, a year later, her memory remains vivid in the hearts of her loved ones and fans. For Bishop Nkambule, the pain of her absence is still felt deeply, yet he holds on to the promise of being reunited in eternity.
As tributes continue to flow, it is clear that Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s influence and spirit live on, reminding many of the power of faith, love, and perseverance.
