Tears and controversy at S’fiso’s memorial
JUST LET HIM REST IN PEACE – FIRST LADY
THE media came in for some roasting at the memorial service of late gospel powerhouse S’fiso Ncwane as speakers lambasted it for “negative coverage”.
More than 1 000 mourners packed the EThekwini Community Church, in Durban, for the emotionallycharged memorial service.
Dressed in a black outfit Ayanda, – S’fiso Ncwane’s wife – kept her head bowed as she listened to tributes in honour of her late husband.
At some point she broke down as a musical tribute of his songs was sung by other gospel artists.
She was comforted by her son and other family members. She later sobbed uncontrollably.
Speaking at the memorial, first lady Tobeka Madiba-Zuma slammed the media for “reporting negative things, especially after people’s deaths.”
“I wish the media would be patriotic and respect the dead,” Madiba-Zuma said.
She then spoke about her own experiences.
“Everything that is said about the president, I brush off. That’s how I survive,” she said.
Madiba-Zuma advised Ncwane’s wife Ayanda not to be bothered by the negative coverage.
“Close the doors and close the windows to the media,” radio presenter Linda Sibiya said.
Sibiya accused the media of writing negative stories about people and said “journalists bury people while they are still alive”.
“S’fiso is gone. Let him rest in peace. Enough is enough, just let him rest in peace.
“People are waiting for Ayanda’s house to be auctioned and his cars to be repossessed.”
Sibiya also appealed to Ncwane’s family to settle internal matters between themselves instead of going to the media.
“If you have issues, resolve them among yourselves. Let S’fiso’s legacy live on,” Sibiya added.
The gospel singer and his wife were often featured on the covers of local magazines talking openly about their marriage and what kept their relationship strong.
Fellow gospel artist, Sipho Makhabane, who has also been acting as family spokesperson, shared fond memories of his friendship with Ncwane.
“We are celebrating the life of a giant. Baba (God) protect the family,” said Makhabane.
Makhabane said “artists loved S’fiso and all would love to be on stage to pay tribute to him”.
Popular artists who performed at the service were Joyous Celebration singer Nobathembu Mabeka.
A group of fellow gospel singers, including Andile KaMajola, Abanqobi, Ithemba le Afrika, Avante and Thinah Zungu closed off the service with a heart-warming series of gospel songs.
Gospel greats such as Rebecca Malope, award-winning KaMajola, S’gwili and Hlengiwe Mhlaba are some of the artists expected to attend the funeral tomorrow at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
KwaZulu-Natal premier Willies Mchunu and dignitaries from his government were expected to attend the funeral.
Meanwhile, Joburg designer Scalo, whose real name is Sello Medupe, has been commissioned by Ayanda to design her gown for the funeral service.
Medupe said he had created a black dress harking back to the Victorian era.
“It’s sophisticated, elegant and lady like. I might accessorise it with a veil too,” Medupe shared.
Medupe added that he was given just two days to conceptualise and deliver the finished product.
He said the dress fitting was scheduled for today.
He said he had recently started dressing Ayanda, with the first look being 1940s-inspired ensemble at the recent Crown Gospel Music Awards.
Medupe added that Ayanda had been following him on Instagram and loved his work.
“She is a fun person with a good personality. She is not the revealing type and likes being comfortable and elegant and respectable.”
Medupe refused to disclose whether Ayanda will pay for the garment or if it will be sponsored.
Another memorial service for Ncwane will be held today at the Grace Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto.
Ncwane will be laid to rest at Heroes Acre in Chesterville, Durban.