‘She was in pain’: Zanele Mbokazi’s family remembers her final days as they bid her farewell.

The recent funeral service for Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule at the Durban International Conference Centre was nothing short of a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable woman. Described by mourners with words like “beautiful,” “kind,” and “intelligent,” Zanele, who was just 52 years old, lost her battle with lung cancer earlier this week. As colleagues, family, and friends gathered to bid farewell, the atmosphere was filled with both sorrow and celebration, adorned in white and decorated with white roses—a fitting tribute to a life that inspired many, according to ZiMoja.

Zanele was a multifaceted individual, known not only as a broadcaster and businesswoman but also as an author and mother. Her dedication to uplifting others was evident through her initiatives, such as the Crown Gospel Awards, which she founded to celebrate gospel music and artists. During the service, her cousin Weh Harris shared insightful reflections on their family lineage, highlighting their roots that reportedly trace back to Mozambique and Zanzibar. “Zanele was beautiful, she got her beauty and intellect from the Harris family,” he stated, reinforcing her legacy of elegance and intelligence.

Weh poignantly spoke about the family’s struggle with cancer, revealing that Zanele was diagnosed in the final stages of her illness. In his heartfelt remarks, he recalled how the family preferred not to speak of cancer at home, having seen its devastating impact. “We pray that it doesn’t take any more of our family members,” he urged, invoking a sense of solidarity and hope. He expressed gratitude to Zanele’s husband, Bishop Nkambule, for openly sharing her diagnosis, allowing many to offer their love and support during her difficult times. “She felt the love and support in her last days,” Weh emphasized, shedding light on the importance of community during such challenging periods.

The service featured moving tributes, including a powerful song by multi-Crown Gospel award winner Dumi Mkokstad, adding an emotional layer to the occasion. Programme director Siya Mhlongo, who worked closely with Zanele, reminisced about her efforts to bring international gospel acts to South Africa, noting that her influence was felt far and wide. He shared humorous anecdotes that reflected her vibrant personality, illustrating that beneath her sweetness lay a strong and determined spirit. “Zanele would tell you where to get off,” he smiled, capturing her fierce determination alongside her gentle nature.

The Roman Catholic Church, where Zanele worshiped during her upbringing, echoed sentiments of her selflessness. They acknowledged her commitment to empowering people without the need for titles, stating, “Her obsession was not about titles but how to better help and care for other people.” This perspective demonstrates a core part of Zanele’s legacy—the belief in treating everyone equally, regardless of their social or economic status.

As mourners left the Durban International Conference Centre, they carried with them the memory of a woman who dedicated her life to enriching the lives of those around her. Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule will be remembered not just for her achievements but for her indelible impact on the lives she touched. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of kindness, community, and resilience in the face of adversity. Rest in peace, Zanele—you will be dearly missed but forever celebrated.