Mampintsha of hit group Big Nuz has died. He was 40. According to reports, the South African musician died on Saturday after suffering a stroke last week. Afrotainment confirmed the news on social media.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing of multi-award winning artist, Mampinstsha. Born Mandla Maphumulo from Umlazi, KZN of Big Naz fame passed away on 24 December.” The statement concluded that funeral and memorial details would be confirmed.
In a statement released by music label Afrotainment Thursday, Mampintsha – real name Mandla Maphumulo – was hospitalised after suffering a stroke following a performance with Big Nuz.
“He is currently in hospital receiving medical attention and is under doctor’s observation,” the statement said. “The family asks that the public and media respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Mampitsha was married to Babes Wodumo. The couple welcomed their first child in July 2021 and had been working on their marriage, as seen on their reality show, Uthando Lodumo. The second season was released in September. The first season of the couple’s reality show gave viewers a front-row seat into the couple’s lobola negotiations, their star-studded wedding celebration, and the anticipation of the birth of their first child, affectionately known as “Sponge”.
Condolences have poured in from fans as well as fellow artists in the music industry since the news of his passing. Afrotainment has asked the public to allow the family, including his wife some privacy during this difficult time. Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has sent condolences to Mampintsha’s family. Dube-Ncube said his family should find consolation in knowing that the muso has done a service for his country and his community. She said Durban will never be the same without Mampintsha.
“We are all mourning the loss of this icon. You would know that when you are in KwaZulu-Natal, when you are in Durban, it would not be Durban without Mampintsha, it would not be KZN without our Mampintsha.”