Singer Zahara says she’s feeling the loss of AmaXhosa King Zwelonke Sigcawu.
King Sigcawu died in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape at age 51.
Read more: Zahara signs a concert residency with big hotel and casino company
Speaking to Move! the East London-born says the Xhosa nation has lost a humble soul. “We lost a gentle giant in King Sigcawu. He was so humble you wouldn’t know how to act around him,” she shares.
Zahara remembers the King as someone who cared a lot for his people and wanted the best for his community. “I hope his predecessor would carry on the wonderful work His Majesty was doing as well,” she says.
His sudden passing also took her by surprise despite their long relationship.
The singer says he used to invite her in his village of Nqadwe Great Place. “Whenever His Majesty was doing his community upliftment work, he would call me to come,” she recalls.
Read more: SABC to investigate UMhlobo Wenene FM over allegations of not playing Zahara’s music
Zahara shared on her social media a moment she shared with the king while sending her condolences. She expressed her sadness of learning about his passing with crying emojis.
“Xolweni KwaXhosa???? i am saddened to hear about the passing of His Majesty Mpendulo Zwelonke Sigcawu. King of my tribe amaXhosa. My condolences to his family and my people. Rest In Peace [sic],” she said.
