Tributes continue to pour in for Mpumalanga-born actress Emelinah Nhleko, known as LaMabuza. Nhleko is popular for the role she played on Ligwalagwala FM radio’s drama series “Ngalutfota Lolumanti.”
Her work also featured on various SABC television platforms, mainly SABC 1 and SABC 2. She succumbed after a long battle with lung cancer.
Nhleko had a flourishing career in acting. Her work featured both on radio and television for over three decades.
“I was working with her, acting with her on the Ligwalagwala sopie Ngalutfota lolumanti. I was playing the role of Khethiwe and she was playing the role of LaMabuza, we fought on the drama series but in real life we were friends,” says Alice Shongwe, Nhleko’s friend and colleague.
“We are very saddened by her passing. We are devastated because she was a bubbly person and many people loved her work especially on radio,” says Nhleko’s sister, Thabisile.
Nhleko’s talent earned her respect among fans, including young and old. Taxi drivers and commuters are among those devastated by her passing. The Mbombela taxi rank used to be Nhleko’s chilling spot.
The SABC says Nhleko’s passing has left a void.
“We are hoping that young people will rise up to the challenge because her work was very great. We are very saddened by her passing,” says Ligwalagwala FM station manager, Rio Mabunda.
Nhleko’s memorial service will be held on Thursday.
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