Mthobeli “KCI” August, who used to work as a presenter at Umhlobo Wenene FM, has died.
He was found dead at his Johannesburg home on Friday. The exact cause of his death is unknown.
August was famous for his engaging and original style as a radio host, having presented Umhlobo Wenene’s afternoon drive show.
His death is a huge loss for those who appreciated his work and his impact on the radio industry.
“The August family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of their son, Mthobeli KCi August,” the family said in a statement on Friday night. “Mthobeli was found unresponsive at his home in Johannesburg on Friday, 29 December 2023. He was a celebrated radio presenter who mesmerised audiences across South Africa with his distinctive style of presenting.
“We request privacy during this time of grief. The funeral arrangements will be communicated in due time.”
A series of tragedies The proverb “bad things happen in threes” has sadly proven true again, leaving South Africans heartbroken.
First, the country grieved the death of music sensation Bulelwa “Zahara” Mkutukana who was buried on Saturday last week.
Mkutukana died on December 11 at the Olievedale Netcare Hospital in Johannesburg after a long hospitalisation.
Rumours about her health circulated with allegations of liver-related problems and pre-diabetes. However, her family still questions these reports, leading the family to launch an investigation.
Mkutukana’s family suspects that she might have been poisoned by someone with malicious motives. Her death was followed by that of legendary playwright, composer and musician Mbongeni Ngema.
Ngema, the mastermind behind the globally acclaimed musical Sarafina, died in a head-on crash with a truck in Bizana, about 300km away from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday.
Even though he was not the driver of the car, he sustained serious injuries that eventually caused his death.
Ngema was on his way back from a funeral in Lusikisiki, also in the Eastern Cape, when the accident happened.