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Durban – South African soapie star Menzi Ngubane was brought to tears as he spoke about gospel icon Sfiso Ncwane at his funeral in Durban on Saturday.
While saying his final goodbyes to his former friend, Ngubane uncontrollably began sobbing also bringing President Jacob Zuma’s wife Thobeka to tears.
During his emotional address, Ngubane – a well-known Generations and Isibaya actor – said that he knew Ncwane before he became well known to millions in SA.
“He was a giving and wonderful man. I pass my deepest condolences to his wife Ayanda and the family. He admired my acting and always wanted to record an album with me.”
Ngubane affectionately spoke of how he once gave Ncwane a suit so he could shoot his first CD cover.
“He was really grateful and very happy. From that day onward, I never forgot him.”
A worthy send off for gospel legend Sfiso Ncwane @News24 pic.twitter.com/ggDSWTHCQE
— Kaveel Singh (@kaveels) December 10, 2016
Ncwane’s uncle Mduduzi Ncwane said that the family was still struggling to cope with his death.
“We will miss you so much. Thank you to everyone for the support. We still cannot believe that he is gone. We are still hurting very much.”
Isibaya actor Nhlanhla Mdlalose, a close friend of Ncwane said that all of SA was mourning his loss.
“I don’t know what to say. I will miss my friend so much. He was an amazing human being who always helped others.”
eThekwini Metro Mayor Zandile Gumede doled out high praise for Ncwane saying he was anointed by God.
“We don’t doubt that Sfiso was God-sent. He uplifted his community. He gave back. He knew how to forgive and he mended relationships.”
She went on to say that the city would uplift Durban artists.
Speaking on behalf of gospel artists, Sipho Makhabane recalled when he heard the news of Ncwane’s passing.
“I was halfway to Nelspruit when I received a call from a journalist enquiring Sfiso’s passing. I had to make a u-turn back to Johannesburg. When I arrived at the hospital, he was resting peacefully as if he was sleeping and will wake up at any time.”
Makhabane added that his contribution would live on for generations to come.
At least 2 500 people occupied Moses Mabhida stadium with provincial and national dignitaries in attendance.
WATCH: President Jacob Zuma's wife Thobeka has just entered Moses Mabhida stadium for gospel icon Sfiso Ncwane's funeral @News24 pic.twitter.com/9ttCRV0awZ
— Kaveel Singh (@kaveels) December 10, 2016
There was also a heavy security presence in preparation for the large crowd. Rain steadily pelted down, but Ncwane fans still streamed in.
The crowd now in high spirits at Moses Mabhida stadium for the funeral of gospel icon Sfiso Ncwane @News24 pic.twitter.com/WohOP9JJYW
— Kaveel Singh (@kaveels) December 10, 2016
