KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikakala has on behalf of the Provincial Government offered his condolences to the family and friends and colleagues of highly respected and loved Ukhozi FM newsreader Sicelo Mbokazi , who passed away on Friday 10 June 2022.

Affectionately known as “uMbhishobhi Omkhulu”, Mbokazi was loved by listeners and colleagues even from other rival radio stations. He made news-reading joyful, informative and educative.

“On behalf of the provincial government and all the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we would like to convey our deepest condolences to the Mbokazi family, Ukhozi FM staff and listeners for the loss of their loved newsreader.

“We were actually taken aback by the announcement of Scelo Mbokazi’s passing. While we heard about his indisposition, we thought he would would recover and be back to perform his iconic task of keeping citizens informed.

“KwaZulu-Natal is proud to have been home of the doyen of radio news reading who endeared himself to the listeners of Ukhozi FM through his distinctive style of reading the news and his famous sign off.

We are going to miss his jovial nature and sense of humour.

“Mbokazi followed in the footsteps of revered and talented newsreaders like Thokozani Gxabalembadada Nene, Jabulani “Mjay” Sibisi and Themba “Kwangiphinda Lokho” Gasa, who entertained listeners through their unique and inimitable style of delivering the news.

He was a familiar voice in the living rooms of many citizens. There is no doubt that the ease with which he communicated news, will leave an indelible mark that will serve as a template for aspiring news readers and broadcasters alike.

Farewell mfokaMbokazi, uyibekile induku ebandla,” concluded Premier Zikalala