Presenter bids SABC farewell after 32 years
After 32 years at the SABC, the legendary Mvikeli Stanford Mhlanga is finally taking a well-deserved retirement.
MBOMBELA – Known to his listeners as “Magidzeludzakeni”, he is set to leave the siSwati broadcasting radio station, Ligwalagwala FM at the end of September.
He will, however, not be entirely missed as he will still host his Saturday midday show, Lwesuka Lutfuli. “It was a really difficult decision for me to leave, but age and time were quickly closing in on me.
But on a positive note, I am happy that I am leaving behind a group of equally talented young men and women who are capable to move with speed and take this station to even greater heights,” said Mhlanga.
He joined the SABC in 1987, employed as a music producer, before being incorporated into the news department.
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While a presenter of news bulletins and current affairs, he was roped into Ligwalagwala FM where he presented a traditional music show for four years. He stopped presenting the programme after it was phased out. Mhlanga was recently called in to present the same show, now renamed Lwesuka Lutfuli, after its re-inception.
“I can’t say my departure will leave a void because I believe that I have done my work perfectly. “I believe that the young people who I am leaving behind will take the baton and do it justice. I believe I have served my supporters and all the station’s listeners to the best of my ability,” said Mhlanga.
He said all he ever wanted was to see the station grow and keep on flying high.
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The SABC’s acting provincial general manager and Ligwalagwala FM’s manager, Rio Mabunda, said, “I am honoured to have worked with such a broadcasting giant. It is sad to lose such great institutional memory, but we have to allow our colleagues to graciously hand over the baton. We thank him for all his hard work over the years and wish him well in his life after work.
“He is among the presenters who grew Ligwalagwala FM’s listenership to a staggering 1,3 million. He took Lwesuka Lutfuli to an elevated level through his insightfulness, willingness to share knowledge and friendliness.” His show airs from 10:00 to 12:00 on Saturdays.
