Church honours gospel queen for excellence

For the first time in history, achievers hailing from Mbombela Local Municipality will be officially honoured annually. Sunday marked the first honorary service when gospel queen, Dr Rebecca Malope was praised and blessed for doing her part to put this part of the province on the map in the most remarkable way.

The event is the brainchild of MVG Lephoko ministries under the leadership of Past Mxolisi Lephoko.

“I have taken it upon myself to recognise people of great influence while they are still alive.

Sis Rebecca is the first and others who have excelled in all walks of life will be annually recognised here,” he stated.

During the event, local artists did a rendition of the multi award-winning star’s songs, getting the audience into stitches with imitations of her dramatic dance moves and performances.

Speaking on behalf of the mayoral committee, Mbombela Municipality executive mayor, Cllr Cathy Dlamini expressed her gratitude to “Sis Ribs” for painting a beautiful picture of the municipality, saying she portrayed it as a home for decent talent.

“We have never read headlines about you doing all the funny things that artists do but whenever we read about you, it is about you contributing positively to people’s lives and for that I say you are the right person to be acknowledged today,” said the mayor.

Adding the cherry on top, an aspiring gospel star was also crowned during the service. This was after auditions were conducted in search of young artists who would be endorsed by the star and signed under Phondongozi Productios, Mxolisi’s company.

Princess Nkuna of White River walked away with the prize – a recording contract with Phondongozi and an opportunity to be mentored by Rebecca.

Malope, who comes from a very poor background, also donated a house to two orphaned teenagers of Luphisi.

“I know what it is like to grow up without a mother and to be without a home, and I took advantage of this honour to honour others who deserve it most,” she said.