aNC Statements

The African National Congress (ANC) has received the news of the passing of radio legend, Welcome Bhodloza Nzimande, with shock and sadness. We join the South African Broadcasting Service (SABC) family and the music industry in mourning the loss of this giant of the airwaves. His passing marks the end of a golden era in the history of broadcasting.
 
Nzimande joined the SABC in 1978 as a presenter at Ukhozi FM which he served for 19 years before being appointed station manager in 1997. It was under his stewardship that Ukhozi FM became biggest radio station in the Country in terms of listenership.
 
Popularly known as Bhodloza or Ingulube Ncani, this son of the soil will be remembered for his passion for indigenous music. He promoted local music on both television and radio through shows like Ezodumo and Sgiyangengoma which he presented with remarkable passion on SABC1 and Ukhosi FM respectively. He almost single-handedly took Masikandi and mbhaqanga music to international level.
 
Nzimande was co-founder of the South African Traditional Music Association (Satma) with the late Joseph Shabalala of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This initiative was later to lead to the launch of the Satma awards in 2005.
 
The ANC sends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, Ukhosi FM, the entire SABC and the music industry. We hope they will find solace in the knowledge that the whole nation shares their grief. We wish them strength and fortitude during this difficult time.

Mphephethwa, Ngwekazi, Gwala , Majiya hamba kahle.
 
END
 
ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
 
Enquiries:
Pule Mabe
National Spokesperson
071 623 4975