By A Correspondent

South African Afropop musician and actress Winnie Khumalo has passed away at the age of 51. According to sources, Khumalo died on Tuesday at her home after a short illness.

Media personality Sabelo “Ntombeningi” Sithole was one of the first people contacted by Khumalo’s daughter, Rethabile, who informed him of her mother’s condition. Sithole rushed to Khumalo’s home, but unfortunately, it was too late.

Khumalo had a series of health scares in recent years, including being diagnosed with diabetes and asthma. In 2017, she was wheelchair-bound for several weeks following a back operation.

Khumalo rose to fame as a teenager, introduced to the music industry by the late Brenda Fassie. She worked as a backing singer for Fassie and released her debut album, “Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina”, at just 15 years old.

Throughout her career, Khumalo collaborated with notable artists, including Pure Magic, Sipho Mbele, and Bongo Maffin. She also acted in TV series such as “Muvhango” and “Mponeng”.

Khumalo’s daughter, Rethabile, followed in her mother’s footsteps, composing a hit song with Sello Chicco Twala. Khumalo’s legacy will be remembered through her contributions to the South African music industry.