Mandla Mthembu was a well–known business magnate who enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle, from driving the most luxurious cars to wearing designer clothes. In 2010, however, he suddenly disappeared from the public eye after reports surfaced that he had gone bankrupt.
Since then, South Africans have been speculating about Mthembu‘s whereabouts. He previously attracted media attention due to his rumoured relationships with Khanyi Mbau and Zodwa Wabantu.
Expensive lifestyle and net worth
In 2007, Mandla Mthembu was recognized as one of the wealthiest South Africans by BuzzSouthAfrica, with media outlets estimating his net worth to be around R2.5 billion. His wealth was further increased when he won an R57 million lawsuit against Transnet. At the time, Mthembu owned the Martial Eagle Investment company.
Failed marriage with South African actress Khanyi Mbau
When Mandla Mthembu and Khanyi Mbau began their relationship, Mbau was only 19 years old, and Mthembu was 30 years her senior. The two eventually wed and were blessed with a daughter. Unfortunately, the union did not last, and the couple split due to financial issues that Mthembu was struggling with. Reportedly, Mbau has since admitted that she was in the relationship for the money.
Relationship with Zodwa Wabantu
On an episode of Zodwa Wabantu‘s reality show, Zodwa Uncensored, it was revealed that Mandla Mthembu was the father of her son. The two had previously been in a relationship.
The fall of Mandla Mthembu, what happened to the billionaire?
In 2008, reports began circulating on the internet that Mandla Mthembu was in financial trouble. However, the rumours were quickly dismissed by Mthembu himself. His wife, Dolly Matshabe, later confirmed that he was indeed broke and unable to purchase even basic school supplies for their daughter.
Two years later, it became apparent that Mandla Mthembu had lost his fortunes. His properties were being repossessed, and he lived in the Croydon Motel in Isando. Unfortunately, he was evicted from the motel after failing to pay his bills. Since then, there has been no further word of Mandla Mthembu’s whereabouts.