Family confirms Akhumzi Jezile among five killed in car accident

Former YoTV presenter and Umhlobo Wenene radio personality Akhumzi Jezile was killed at age 29 in a head-on collision in Queenstown in the Eastern Cape on Saturday, his family has confirmed.

Family spokesperson Percy Vilakazi told EWN the family was struggling to accept the news.

He said that they were all suffering “emotional paralysis” and great sadness after losing someone who personified being the life of the party.

Sunday Sun reports that he and his friend were travelling in his new BMW X6 when tragedy struck on their way to the Eastern Cape for the long weekend. He was working as a director on Live AMP, a popular music show.

Jezile was among five people killed in the crash. Actor Thobani Mseleni and former Joyous Celebration singer Siyasanga Kobese were also killed.

The identities of the remaining victims are yet to be released. The transport minister has urged South Africans to take extra care while travelling over the long weekend.

Among those that took to Twitter to pay tribute to Jezile was Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa.

We're saddened to hear the news of the tragic and sudden passing of multitalented actor, producer, TV & radio presenter, Akhumzi Jezile. We'll miss his exhilarating energy, passion & appreciation of Africa culture, which inspired him to learn most of our languages. #RIPAkhumzi pic.twitter.com/RdL0rcuGA4

— Min. Nathi Mthethwa (@NathiMthethwaSA) April 28, 2018

Many South Africans expressed their shock at the loss of yet another talented South African creative.

Akhumzi was very passionate about entertainment it was so admirable to watch. It seemed like he was passionate about everyone. He’ll definitely be missed and remembered. To his family and friends my condolences goes out to y’all. #RipAkhumzi

— Da L.E.S (@2freshLES) April 28, 2018

This is my Eastern Cape homeboy – my friend – my brother.
This is one of the guys who welcomed me in the industry with LOVE, back in 2013.
One of the greatest assets SA arts has ever had. A mentor, a professional, a good man!

Lala ngoxolo mhlob’ am. 😭😭😭 #ripAkhumzi pic.twitter.com/T211WE5IjC

— 𝐋𝐮𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐚 (@LuyandaPotwana) April 28, 2018

#RipAkhumzi
Thank you for growing up with us on YOTV.
Thank you for always being yourself and letting us into your life.
Thank you for being a role model and chasing your dreams relentlessly!
😢 2018 is doing the most. pic.twitter.com/vsUtZlidmz

— Harrison Mkhize (@HarrisonMkhize_) April 28, 2018

I don’t have the words. I don’t understand. This is just a lot. To all who loved him, knew him and got to know him. We are so lucky and so blessed. May his soul rest in eternal peace. #RipAkhumzi

— Relebogile Mabotja (@RelebogileM) April 28, 2018

South Africa’s arts and culture industry has experienced notable losses this year.

Award-winning musician Hugh Masekela lost his battle with prostate cancer in January.

Veteran actor Sandy Mokwena, best known for Bra Eddie on e.tv’s Scandal! died of natural causes in January. Well-known actor David Phetoe died in hospital in February at 85. David was known for his role as Paul Moroka on Generations. Radio personality Chris Matshaba died of cancer in February.

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