The untimely passing of Zakes Bantwini’s father
Sihlangusihle Jeffrey Khanyile, father of Grammy nominated recording artist Zakes Bantwini (Zakhele Madida) died Wednesday night, January 4 around 9pm at his homestead eNkandla north of Kwa-Zulu Natal. He was 65 years old at the time of his untimely death. Mr Khanyile leaves behind his wife and nine children.
“We are devastated by the loss of our father,” his children said in a joint statement. “We will miss his sense of humour, his resilience and how he always made sure we follow our culture. He will be deeply missed for his kindness and loving nature.”
Zakes’ wife, Nandi Madida, shared a tribute to her late father-in-law in a heartfelt Instagram post. “I am eternally grateful by the kindness you showed me as your daughter in law, you truly made me feel like your daughter in love. You had a wicked sense of humour that we will miss dearly, thank you for making me feel like family and welcoming me so warmly. You are with your creator now.”
The family asks for prayers and privacy during this difficult time.