Renowned South African musician and actress Winnie Khumalo has died at the age of 51. The beloved artist passed away on Tuesday at her home after a brief illness, her family confirmed.
Media personality Sabelo “Ntombeningi” Sithole was among the first to be contacted by Khumalo’s daughter, Rethabile Khumalo. “Rethabile called me, and I could tell from her voice that something was wrong. She asked me to rush to her mother’s house because Winnie was unresponsive. Unfortunately, it was too late. I am heartbroken; I have lost a dear friend,” said a tearful Sithole.
Sithole revealed he had last spoken to Khumalo on Monday, January 6, 2025. “I knew she wasn’t well, but I didn’t expect this,” he added.
A Career Rooted in Music and Resilience
Born in Soweto, Khumalo’s journey into the music industry began in her teenage years when she was mentored by the legendary Brenda Fassie. At just 15, she released her debut album Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina, followed by Dlamini in the 1980s. She later explored gospel music with the album Izono Zami in the 1990s, produced by Pastor Langa Dube.
Khumalo’s career highlights included working as a backing vocalist for Brenda Fassie and collaborating with celebrated artists such as Pure Magic, Bongo Maffin, Brothers of Peace (B.O.P), Zonke Dikana, and DJ Cleo. After a hiatus, she returned in 2008 with the album I Just Wanna Live My Life, produced by Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa. The album earned her nominations at the Channel O Music Awards and the South African Music Awards (SAMAs).
Over the years, Khumalo faced numerous health challenges but remained a symbol of resilience. In 2017, she was briefly wheelchair-bound following a back operation and treatment for an abscess. In November 2024, she revealed she had been diagnosed with asthma after suffering shortness of breath. “I didn’t know I had asthma until I experienced an attack. The doctors said it’s manageable, and I just need to take care of myself,” she shared at the time.
Khumalo also successfully managed diabetes and often spoke about her determination to live a long life. “I am a fighter; everyone knows. Many of my peers have passed on, but I want to see my grandchildren grow old,” she once said.
Legacy and Family
Khumalo’s legacy lives on through her music and her daughter, Rethabile Khumalo, who followed in her mother’s footsteps to become a successful singer. The duo co-composed the hit song Mina Ngiyohlala Nginje, which Winnie performed alongside then-President Jacob Zuma during the 2009 ANC election campaigns.
Rethabile, who auditioned for SA Idols in 2011 and 2012, later launched a flourishing career in the music industry, carrying forward her mother’s artistic torch.
Winnie Khumalo’s contributions to South African music and entertainment have left an indelible mark. Her vibrant spirit, determination, and immense talent will be remembered by fans and peers alike.
