In a shocking incident, Prof James “Godo” Mthembu, a well-known traditional healer and businessman from KwaZulu-Natal, was fatally shot at his home in Manguzi, UMhlabuyalingana. The attack occurred on Friday night around 10:30 PM while he was with his family.
According to reports, an unidentified young man entered the residence and opened fire, fatally wounding Mthembu. The motive for the killing is currently unknown, and details about the suspect are still awaited from authorities.
Mthembu, whose full traditional title was UGod’olulal’amankankane, was a prominent and influential figure. He first gained significant media attention in 2016 when he publicly condemned the brutal killings of people with albinism for muti purposes.
His profile continued to rise through appearances in newspapers and on YouTube, where he shared details of his life, including his ownership of multiple businesses, such as a fleet of minibus taxis operating in northern KZN. In a recent YouTube video, he confirmed he had 15 wives and 69 children.
He was also known for his charitable work. In 2023, he successfully helped a family that was reportedly haunted by spirits, refusing to charge them any fee after a public plea for assistance. His murder has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many to mourn the loss of a complex and influential public figure.