Siphiwe Mkhonza, 45, Passes Away

Footballing legend and TV analyst, Siphiwe Mkhonza, has passed away at the age of 45.

In a statement published by Mkhonza’s family on Tuesday, 5 March, the former centre-back died that morning following a lengthy kidney infection.

“He was admitted at Charlotte Maxeke [a hospital in Johannesburg, Gauteng] a month ago and was released after showing signs of recovery,” the statement reads. “Mkhonza was being taken care of by his girlfriend and mother of his three children, Nondumiso Masengemi, at their home in Roodepoort.

“The family wishes to thank his former employer and his colleagues at SABC [South African Broadcasting Corporation], fellow football legends from the stable he belonged to and friends for their support during his illness.”

After cutting his teeth at Bloemfontein Celtic, Ria Stars and Golden Arrows, Mkhonza joined Kaizer Chiefs in 2004. There, he helped them lift multiple domestic championships until he left the team in 2007.

After floating from club to club, Mkhonza eventually hung up his boots in 2012. He then embarked on a career as a football analyst at the SABC, where he became known for his humorous yet thoughtful commentary on the beautiful game.

Mkhonza is survived by his children, his parents and his brother. Details regarding his memorial service and funeral are expected to be shared in due course.

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