Kwaito star Mapaputsi, praise poet Mbangeni to be laid to rest today

Legendary kwaito star Sandile “Mapaputsi” Ngwenya and praise poet Dr Jessica Mbangeni are being laid to rest today.

Ngwenya will be buried at West Park cemetery and his funeral service is being held at Dlamini Multipurpose Centre in Soweto.

The ‘Izinja’ hit maker died on Thursday last week after being ill for over a year.

Music | SA continues to mourn Kwaito star ‘Mapaputsi’

Many of his friends and fans took to social media to express their deep sadness at news of his passing.

Ngwenya’s work didn’t go unnoticed as he was recognized through numerous accolades such as Best Kwaito Artist, Best Kwaito Song at the Metro FM Awards, Best Kwaito Song and Best Music Video at the SA Music Awards.

Gauteng Sport, Arts and Culture spokesperson, Nomazwe Ntlokwana expressed the provincial government’s condolences.

“Mapaputsi’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and his name will remain etched in the files of our music catalogue. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Dr Jessica Mbangeni is being laid to rest in her hometown in Ngqamakhwe in the Eastern Cape. She died two weeks ago after a short illness.

The 47 year-old was known for her powerful praise poet performances using her home language Isixhosa.

Praise poet, Dr Jessica Mbangeni’s rich legacy celebrated:

She performed numerous times for former President Thabo Mbeki.

The MEC of Arts and Culture in the Eastern Cape, Sibulele Ngongo says Mbangeni’s contribution to the Arts and Culture sector will never be forgotten.

“Her passion as an ambassador of our sector was a joy to witness. Miss Mbangeni was a recipient among other recognizable awards and accolades of the Eastern Cape Art and Culture MEC recognition awards.

We are poorer with the untimely departure of this daughter of the soil and we further take this moment to send our deepest condolences to the Mbangeni family, its extension and the broad Arts, culture and heritage sector.”