Hugh Masekela and his wife split

A close associate of Masekela, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisals, said that his Ghanian-born wife, Elinam, called it quits a few months ago after complaining that she always slept alone because Masekela was always away from home, City Press reports.

The associate added Masekela spent a lot of his time in the US touring with his band, while Elinam remained alone in the couple’s Johannesburg home.

She also apparently convinced him that she could travel with him to the US, but then changed her mind.

“After long and laborious discussions, the two agreed to part ways amicably,” said the associate.

He also said that Elinam packed her bags last week and headed home to Ghana.

“We feel very bad that it is now over. We thought they would find a solution to their problem, but unfortunately things turned out to be the way they are.

“We don’t blame her for her decision because in her late 30s she is too young to be left at home,” said the associate.

In a statement, Masekela’s manager, Andrew Josh Georgiou said: “Both Mr and Mrs Masekela have declined to comment on the matter.

“As you yourself have pointed out, it is very much a private matter and they would prefer to keep it that way,” Georgiou wrote.

– TeamTalk