Maskandi star Khuzani “King Khuba” Mpungose is grieving the loss of his grandmother, Gcinephi Mngadi Khanyile (75), who passed away on Thursday morning after a brief illness. Known for her pivotal role in Khuzani’s life, Gogo Gcinephi was more than just a grandparent to him; she was his parental figure and nurturer after his mother, Sizakele Ngema, passed away when he was just 14 years old.
## A Grandmother’s Love and Support
Reflecting on her impact, Khuzani shared his sorrow with *Daily Sun*, describing his grandmother as the backbone of his life. “I’m heartbroken about the passing of my grandmother. She was my everything, always making sure I was taken care of and often asking if I had eaten. Her sudden passing was a shock, as she showed no signs of being gravely ill,” he said.
When Khuzani lost his mother at a young age, his grandmother stepped in to fill the void, providing guidance and support that helped him grow into the successful maskandi artist he is today.
“She stood up and raised me when I became an orphan at the age of 14. She guided me to where I am now, and I will always be grateful for her sacrifices,” Khuzani said.
## Her Last Moments
Khuzani recalled his last conversations with his grandmother, which took place just days before her passing. On Saturday, she called him from her home in Nkandla, expressing concern for his health. She urged him to return home from Johannesburg, where he was staying at the time.
“She told me to come home because she didn’t want me to be far from her, especially if I was unwell,” Khuzani said.
By Sunday, she had requested transport to visit the doctor for a check-up, suspecting something was wrong. Khuzani arranged for her to be taken to the doctor on Tuesday, but despite the medical visit, her health deteriorated suddenly, leading to her passing.
## A Final Goodbye
Though devastated by the loss, Khuzani expressed his gratitude for the life his grandmother gave him. “I release her to go to heaven and will always honor her memory by living the life she raised me to have. She took care of me when I had no one else,” he said.
The family is now preparing for a funeral, with arrangements yet to be finalized.
## Remembering Gcinephi Mngadi Khanyile
Gogo Gcinephi’s influence on Khuzani’s life extended beyond familial love; she became a symbol of resilience and unconditional care. As the first maskandi artist to fill up Moses Mabhida Stadium, Khuzani credits much of his success to the values instilled in him by his grandmother.
Her legacy will live on through Khuzani’s music and the love she imparted to those around her.