JOHANNESBURG – AmaZulu King Goodwill Zwelithini has died.

He was 72.

The news was confirmed in a statement from the royal house on Friday morning.

King Zwelithini had been in hospital for weeks for what was initially reported to be a problem with his blood glucose levels.

The royal house said his health took a turn for the worst and he passed away in the early hours of Friday morning.

They’ve also thanked South Africans for their prayers and support during his illness.

– ewn