POLOKWANE – The family of popular Limpopo musician Kharishma (Melita Makoma Ribane) has issued a statement confirming that the artist is recovering in hospital after being seriously injured in a car accident that claimed one life in Polokwane on Friday (October 31).

According to the family, Kharishma was travelling with three friends when their vehicle was involved in a serious collision at the corner of Grobler and Magazyn Streets in the Polokwane CBD during the early hours of Friday morning.

“Tragically, the accident claimed the life of one of Kharishma’s friends, while the others, including Kharishma, sustained severe injuries,” the family said.

They confirmed that Kharishma is receiving comprehensive medical care in Polokwane and is responding positively to treatment.

The family expressed deep gratitude to the public, fans, and fellow artists for their messages of love, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

“We are deeply touched by the overwhelming messages of support, prayers, and well wishes received thus far. We kindly request the public and media to respect Kharishma’s privacy and give her space and time to focus on her recovery,” the statement read.

The family also thanked the medical professionals treating her and extended appreciation to Polokwane Executive Mayor John Mpe and MMC for Arts and Culture Tebele Mamabolo for their support and compassion.

Mpe, who visited Kharishma in hospital on Friday evening alongside her family and fellow artist Jan “Janisto” Maluleke, expressed confidence in the care she is receiving and confirmed that she is showing signs of improvement.

The family further conveyed their sympathies to the family of the deceased, asking the public to keep all those affected in their thoughts and prayers.