WESTVILLE resident and award-winning artist, Mandlenkosi Maphumulo, known as Mampintsha, will be laid to rest at the Durban ICC today, December 30. He died on Christmas Eve, December 24. Mampintsha is a music icon and the CEO of the famous group, Big Nuz, who have released hits in the Gqom music genre. His record label, West Ink, has produced stars such as Distruction Boyz and Babes Wodumo.

His death followed after his record label, West Ink, announced that he had suffered a minor stroke on December 23 and asked the public to keep the star in their prayers. The very next day, the record label issued another statement confirming his death. 

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“Husband, father, musician and West Ink CEO, Mandlenkosi Mampintsha Maphumulo, has died. Details of his passing cannot be shared with the public. The family of Mandlenkosi Maphumulo, as well as West Ink, have kindly requested privacy during this difficult time,” read the statement. 

Condolences from the nation have been pouring in since then, especially to his wife, Bongekile Simelane, who is known as Babes Wodumo, and their son who is just over a year old. eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi also went to the star’s house in Westville to pay his respects to the family. The KwaZulu-Natal government conveyed their condolences to the star, acknowledging his contribution to the province’s and country’s entertainment.

“When you are in KZN, and in Durban in particular, the festive season will not be the festive season without Mampinstsha and his music,” said the provincial government. 

His memorial service was held on Thursday, December, 29 at the eThekwini Community Church.