The country is mourning the passing of seasoned broadcaster Xolani Gwala. Gwala passed away early on Friday morning.
We send our condolences to the friends and family of the seasoned broadcaster Xolani Gwala whose work ethic and command earned him respect in the industry. We will surely miss him on the radio waves. #RIPXolaniGwala pic.twitter.com/WxsRr3urM9
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) November 1, 2019
Gwala sent shockwaves through the nation when he announced in September 2018 that he had been diagnosed with colon cancer and would be off air to deal with the medical challenge.
He had been battling stage four colon cancer which had already spread to his liver.
Gwala’s experience in the industry includes working as a news reporter, news anchor, producer, talk show host and current affairs presenter and spans across radio and television.
He also worked for SABC’s SAfm as the breakfast show host.
South Africa has lost an exceptional son. I’m going to miss your humility, your infectious laugh, generosity & your passion. You taught me to celebrate life. It was privilege to have known you XG. I’m broken, my heart is shattered. Condolences to the Gwala family. #RipXolaniGwala
— Aki Anastasiou (@AkiAnastasiou) November 1, 2019
During an interview on SABC’s Morning Live show in August last year, he described fighting the disease as “hell”.
He underwent several operations and chemotherapy.
People have taken to Twitter to express their shock and dismay by sending condolence messages and sharing some their fond memories with the man known to many as XG.
Bra X, as he was affectionately known by some of his listeners, was the host of the afternoon drive show and the XG show on Talk Radio 702.
Gwala is survived by his wife, former Miss South Africa, Peggy-Sue Khumalo, and four daughters.
BRO!!! ?? The fight you put up was nothing short of admirable!! You were always selfless and wanting to BE the difference!!! Broadcasting has lost a titan!! Till we meet again ? #RIPXolaniGwala pic.twitter.com/l9HNiCMD5y
— DJ Fresh (Big Dawg) (@DJFreshSA) November 1, 2019
Rest Easy Bra G!
Death be not proud! pic.twitter.com/m5MnzNdT9a
— Tumi Sole (@tumisole) November 1, 2019
Here…a broadcaster!!! What a sad day ? #RIPXolaniGwala pic.twitter.com/JwedokZ3eY
— Thando Thabooty (@Thando_Thabethe) November 1, 2019
RIP bra X. You kept the nation talking. From your flawless isiZulu news anchoring to being the king of talk radio. You managed to be neutral in an industry that is full of people who have taken side. You will always be loved and remembered. #RIPXolaniGwala. pic.twitter.com/qdA9gyNiLx
— DumiGwebuEdits (@dumigwebu) November 1, 2019
Devastating news.
RIP Xolani Gwala.
You were a brilliant broadcaster, a kind human being with an affable smile, always.
Condolences to your family and friends.
Rest in peace, my colleague. pic.twitter.com/5HiQjdNI7J
— Eusebius McKaiser (@Eusebius) November 1, 2019
