Kwaito icon Sandile ‘Mapaputsi’ Ngwenya dies

JOHANNESBURG - Renowned Kwaito star Sandile ‘Mapaputsi’ Ngwenya has passed away at age 45. 

Mapaputsi reportedly died in hospital on Thursday night after a prolonged illness.

The acclaimed Kwaito artist gained prominence in 2001 with the release of his album Izinja, which featured in the soundtrack of Grammy Award-winning movie Tsotsi.

Fans, musicians, and political parties have conveyed heartfelt condolences on social media following his passing, hailing him as one of the greatest kwaito artists ever to take the stage.

Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) expressed appreciation for Mapaputsi’s advocacy within the music industry.

The party said South Africans would forever recognise his efforts to protect music rights and combat the exploitation of artists.

Mapaputsi’s family has yet to provide further details about his funeral arrangements.