South African singer Kelly Khumalo has once again set social media abuzz by hinting at a possible romantic relationship with music mogul Arthur Mafokate. The pair, who have been long-time industry friends, recently shared intimate pictures on Valentine’s Day, leaving fans speculating about the nature of their bond.
On February 14, Kelly shared a photo on Instagram gazing lovingly into Arthur’s eyes. Arthur also posted a picture of himself embracing the award-winning singer, captioned with two heart emojis. The affectionate posts led many to believe the duo might be more than just friends.
Kelly Khumalo
However, not everyone is convinced. While the chemistry between the two is undeniable, many fans speculate this could be another clever marketing strategy. Arthur and Kelly previously teased a romance in 2014 to promote their hit love song Nguye Lo. In the accompanying music video, the pair even “got married,” sparking similar rumors at the time.
Could this be a repeat of their 2014 publicity stunt, or is there something more?
A Controversial Dating History
Kelly Khumalo’s love life has been anything but ordinary. The singer, known for her incredible talent and fiery personality, has had a string of high-profile relationships, often marked by drama and tragedy.
Kelly Khumalo
Prosper Mkwaiwa
Kelly’s first public relationship was with music promoter Prosper Mkwaiwa, who proposed to her on the dating show All You Need Is Love in the early 2000s. However, the engagement was short-lived, ending after Prosper admitted to infidelity.
In 2014, Prosper was involved in a near-fatal car accident, leaving him bedridden for months. Tragically, he passed away in 2015 after experiencing a high fever. His cause of death remains undisclosed.
Jub Jub
In 2010, Kelly began dating musician Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye. Their relationship was tumultuous, marred by allegations of abuse and substance misuse. That same year, Kelly gave birth to their son, Christian, while Jub Jub faced trial for a car accident that claimed the lives of four children.
Following Jub Jub’s release from prison in 2017, he accused Kelly of preventing him from seeing their son—allegations she has denied.
Senzo Meyiwa
Perhaps Kelly’s most infamous relationship was with Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa. Their romance began while Senzo was still married to Mandisa Mkhize. In 2014, Kelly gave birth to their daughter, Thingo.
Just months later, Senzo was tragically shot and killed at Kelly’s family home in Vosloorus. The case, rife with allegations of foul play, remains unsolved nearly a decade later, with suspicions and theories continuing to swirl.
Zamokwakhe “Bhaka” Nzama
In 2016, Kelly was linked to traditional healer Zamokwakhe Nzama, known as Bhaka. Their brief relationship reportedly ended after Kelly demanded that Bhaka leave his wife for her, a request he refused. Bhaka later praised his wife for staying strong through the ordeal.
Chad da Don
Kelly’s whirlwind romance with rapper Chad da Don in 2018 took fans by surprise. The pair got engaged shortly after collaborating on Kelly’s music video for Dance Comigo.
However, the relationship ended as quickly as it began, with Kelly later describing Chad as insecure. Speaking on Podcast and Chill with MacG in 2020, Kelly revealed, “I had to downplay who I am. I am not that desperate.”
Mthokozisi Yende
Most recently, Kelly was romantically linked to former Kaizer Chiefs player Mthokozisi Yende. Reports suggest the pair welcomed a daughter, Luna, in 2022. However, their relationship reportedly ended shortly after Luna’s birth.
Mthokozisi Yende
What’s Next for Kelly and Arthur?
While Kelly and Arthur’s Valentine’s Day posts have reignited rumors, fans remain divided on whether their relationship is genuine or simply another marketing ploy. Regardless, Kelly’s track record suggests her love life will continue to be a hot topic of discussion.
As for her professional life, Kelly remains one of South Africa’s most prominent singers, consistently delivering chart-topping music. Whether her latest collaboration with Arthur is romantic or purely business, one thing is certain: Kelly Khumalo knows how to keep fans talking.