The South African entertainment industry and fans of Moja Love’s popular reality show *Umndeni* are mourning the death of Flora Makena, widely known as Mahlalentabeni. The reality TV star’s passing was reported on Thursday, 26 December 2025, sending shockwaves across social media and leaving viewers heartbroken.
Makena rose to prominence through *Umndeni*, a reality series on Moja Love that delves into the realities of polygamous relationships rooted in African culture and spirituality. The show follows the household of a traditional healer, Maseko, and his wives, who include both gay men and heterosexual women. Mahlalentabeni was one of the most recognisable cast members, admired and sometimes criticised for her outspoken nature, strong opinions and willingness to share her personal experiences openly on national television.
According to reports circulating online, Makena allegedly died by suicide. It is further claimed that she left behind a note dated 24 December, which has since been shared widely on social media platforms. In the note, she reportedly spoke about feeling overwhelmed and bullied by people who allegedly refused to pay her for work she had done. She is quoted as saying that the mistreatment made her feel worthless and emotionally exhausted.
Despite these claims, Makena’s family has not confirmed the cause of her death. When contacted by *Sunday World*, relatives confirmed that she had indeed passed away but declined to provide details surrounding the circumstances. The family explained that they were still processing the loss and were not ready to speak publicly about what may have led to her death.
Makena’s sister, Nomvula Makena, expressed the family’s pain and confusion during a brief conversation with the publication. “Yes, she passed on. As I am speaking to you, we are still trying to figure out what to do from here. Kuningi, kuningi [it’s a lot]. We do not know what to do,” she said before ending the call. Her words reflected the deep shock and emotional turmoil the family is experiencing.
On *Umndeni*, Mahlalentabeni was once positioned as the senior wife, a role that placed her at the centre of many storylines. Over time, dynamics within the household shifted, and she was eventually displaced from that position when another wife returned after years of estrangement. These developments often sparked intense discussions among viewers, further cementing Makena’s place as one of the show’s most talked-about personalities.
Tributes have since flooded social media, with fans remembering her as bold, entertaining and unapologetically herself. Many expressed sadness at her passing and called for greater compassion, particularly for public figures who face constant scrutiny.
Makena’s death marks the second loss associated with *Umndeni*. In 2022, the show also lost cast member Ongeziwe “Malwandle” Madonsela, another flamboyant and memorable personality from the series.
At the time of publishing, Moja Love had not released an official statement regarding Makena’s passing. The channel’s spokesperson was unavailable for comment, with confirmation expected at a later stage.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available through local support services and suicide prevention hotlines.
