Leleti Khumalo appreciates Mbongeni Ngema’s contribution to her career
Leleti Khumalo paid her last respects to her ex-husband Mbongeni Ngema during his funeral service at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC).
The former couple, who had a 15-year age difference, tied the knot in 1992 and divorced in 2005.
Speaking to eNCA outside the venue, the veteran actress said she owes her late ex.
“UMadlokovu [Ngema] basically introduced me to this industry. Bengim’ncane kakhulu [I was very young] and I owe a lot to him,” she said.
The legend was involved in a crash involving a truck on the R61 in Mbizana in the Eastern Cape on 27 December. He died shortly after being attended by doctors at Adelaide and OR Tambo Memorial Hospital.
Leleti Khumalo starred as Sarafina in Ngema’s 1992 musical blockbuster of the same name and also featured in his music videos.
“He put me on the global map. I am known throughout the world because he took me from Kwa-Mashu [a township north of Durban] and launched me into this industry, which I really really appreciate.”
