Maskandi saddened by the passing of INkunzi emavava

Maskandi musician Sibonelo “Khotha” Hlongwane lost four of his dancers in a horrific car crash on Sunday.

The accident, which occurred on Sunday, August 3, in Bergville, KZN Midlands, claimed the lives of five people when the dancers’ red Nissan Magnite collided head-on with a VW Polo while en route to Joburg.

Khotha was scheduled to follow them later.

The victims included Mnotho “Nkunzavava” Mngomezulu, a five-year-old dancer who recently joined the band, as well as Lungelo Makhunga, Sthabiso Mahlangu, and Musa Mngomezulu.

Nkunzavava recently won hearts with his on-stage performances alongside Khotha, impressing many with his young age.

Khotha told Daily Sun that losing four dancers in one day is a difficult situation to deal with.

“Nkunzavava was like a child to me. His father told me he loved my music and wanted to work with me. This accident happened when we were heading home after a gig.

“In the accident, I lost four dancers. Three people in the car, including my wife, daughter, and another dancer, survived but are still in critical condition in the hospital,” he said.

Khotha reflected on Nkunzavava’s talent, saying: “I was amazed by his genius. I wonder if there was anyone like him in the past. Now I see that God was nurturing his talent, knowing he’d take him early.”

Many musicians, including Khuzani Mpungose and Big Zulu, have taken to Facebook to mourn the dancers’ passing.