Former professional footballer and renowned TV analyst, Siphiwe Mkhonza, who notably played for Kaizer Chiefs and Bloemfontein Celtic, has passed away at the age of 45.
In a statement issued by Mkhonza’s family, it was confirmed that he succumbed to a kidney infection in the early hours of Tuesday morning at his residence. Affectionately known as ‘Dr Mnandi’ during his tenure at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), where he worked as an analyst, Mkhonza had been battling the illness for an extended period.
Mkhonza had been admitted to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg a month ago and had shown signs of improvement before being discharged. At home in Roodepoort, he was under the care of his girlfriend and mother of his three children, Nondumiso Masengemi.
The family expressed gratitude towards Mkhonza’s former colleagues at SABC, his peers from the footballing community, and his friends for their unwavering support throughout his illness.
Survived by his children, father Joseph ‘Skheshe Kheshe’ Mkhonza (also a former Chiefs player), mother Phindile Mkhonza, and brother, the family will announce further details regarding funeral arrangements in due course.
Mkhonza commenced his professional football career with Bloemfontein Celtic in 1999 and subsequently played for Ria Stars, Lamontville Golden Arrows, and Kaizer Chiefs. Following his tenure with Chiefs, he had stints with SuperSport United, Maritzburg United, AmaZulu, and Black Leopards.
Transitioning into television analysis after retiring from professional football, Mkhonza became a familiar face on SABC’s sports coverage.
Tributes have begun pouring in for the affable defender. Former SuperSport TV commentator Duane Dell’Oca, who shared the screen with Mkhonza at SABC, expressed his devastation at the news of his passing, recalling fond memories of their time together. Christopher Bongo, another colleague from SABC, echoed the sentiment, describing Mkhonza as a friend, colleague, and beloved figure in South African football.
RIP Siphiwe Mkhonza
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) March 5, 2024
Kaizer Chiefs are deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Siphiwe Mkhonza.
"Dr. Mnandi" served the Club with distinction. As one of us, the entire Kaizer Chiefs family mourns with his loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.… pic.twitter.com/Eh5Iy5cb5k
