Gospel musician Neyi Zimu passes on

Well-known gospel musician and pastor Neyi Zimu has passed on after a long illness.

Zimu died on Wednesday after being admitted at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital’s Zakithi Nkosi Haematology Centre for Excellence, where he had been undergoing chemotherapy for skin cancer.

Another message, however, said he passed away at a hospital in Modderfontein.

The EFF, along with his music colleagues have been sending condolences to the Zimu family following his passing.

In a statement, the party said: “Pastor Zimu has been on the South African gospel scene from the early 1990s. No wonder in 1996 he was one of the founders of Family Factory and Joyous Celebration. This collective saw him collaborate with various artists. In 2001, he released his much-anticipated album Excited which featured Concorde Nkabinde and Jazz duo Tsunami.

“He also was central in the music project, Spirit of Praise, that include other gospel giants like Pastors Benjamin Dube, Solly Mahlangu, Lebo Sekgobela and others.

“The EFF has been graced by his undying support in prayer and music. In our rallies, he has ministered and always told us to trust in God. That was his message, leading us at all times, to confess to the truth of ages, ‘In Jehovah we trust’.”

😢💔💔💔 nothing would have prepared me for that call… #RIPNeyiZimu You represented the kingdom so well. Thank you for the contribution you have made and how you have touched our lives. Forever loved and your ministry will live on.

— #StrongGodOutNow (@DrTumi_) December 5, 2019

His illness became public after his friends and colleagues called for prayers, with prayer meetings being held in his honour.

His friend Omega Khunou paid tribute to him at the Spiritual Awakening Concert held at Sun City two weeks back.

2 weeks ago, Sun City, Spiritual Awakening, this special tribute lifting Neyi Zimu up in prayer was performed. 🥺💔 Go well Ps Zimu, you have run your race. You ran it well. You touched so many of our lives. Ro livhuwa. 🙏🏾 #RIPNeyiZimu pic.twitter.com/ZB2XlAU8Jp

— Hulisani Ravele (@HulisaniRavele) December 5, 2019

At the time, the Economic Freedom Fighters paid a visit to Zimu at the hospital and announced that he had been “recovering well”.

[Must Read] EFF Officials, led by CIC @Julius_S_Malema paid Pastor Neyi Zimu a visit at Baragwanath Hospital this morning. pic.twitter.com/XanrFsFoI0

— Mbuyiseni Ndlozi (@MbuyiseniNdlozi) November 20, 2019

Condolences have been pouring in for the pastor, who was known for his hit songs Lamb of God and Retshepile Wena.

Got a call this morning from Sis Nelle who says to me “Pastor Neyi has gone to be with the Lord” #RIPNeyiZimu 💔

The Vaal has lost a giant, SA has lost a musical titan, and Gospel has lost a Shepard. But HEAVEN has gained a worship and choir leader. His will rest in power ✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/e7w8Mc3WiG

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— Mbuyiseni Ndlozi (@MbuyiseniNdlozi) December 5, 2019

We are very sad by the passing of gospel artist and worshiper Pastor Neyi Zimu who lost his battle with cancer. We send our condolences to his family and friends. His music touched many #RIPNeyiZimu pic via @NeyiZimuMusic pic.twitter.com/nzbqnfITed

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) December 5, 2019

#RIPNeyiZimu Go well my spiritual leader 💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/Fq8P92zjfH

— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) December 5, 2019

Where does one start?!! Pastor Neyi Zimu you have left us broken hearted and shattered! Thank you for your powerful ministry, for loving God, his people and giving it your all! Rest, Man Of God, Rest! Jehova Retshepile Wena! #RIPNeyiZimu pic.twitter.com/4vRpmfw6Qh

— Khanyi Magubane (@Khanyi_Magubane) December 5, 2019

Your music touched many & gave them hope & healing.

Condolences to family, friends, & fans of Pastor Neyi Zimu.#RIPNEYIZIMU #JehovahRetshepileWena pic.twitter.com/6M1TbisRdo

— تذاكر فورية🔱 (@TestifyAfrika) December 5, 2019

I don't care who you are but this song slaps, siletha konke kuwe, Jesu uyinqaba, nqaba yethu… 🕯️🕯️🕯️ One of the best to heal our souls has been called by God but his music and legacy will live on! Sinenqaba enguJesu.. Rest in eternal peace past Neyi Zimu #RIPNeyiZimu pic.twitter.com/YGgV91hkaJ

— 👆🏽 RED CARD SPECIALIST👆🏽🇿🇦 (@redcardexpert) December 5, 2019

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