Umndeni star Mahlalentabeni alive after death scare, family speaks out

Umndeni star Mahlalentabeni is alive

Flora “Mahlalentabeni” Makena’s family has issued a dramatic clarification, confirming that the Umndeni reality TV star is alive, just days after reports emerged that she had died.

The confusion followed a serious medical emergency that saw the star admitted to intensive care, a situation her family initially feared had ended in tragedy.

Relief over her survival has been tempered by deep concern for her wellbeing, with relatives saying she is still emotionally fragile.

The family has also come forward with allegations that financial strain and workplace challenges linked to her time on Umndeni contributed to her crisis, claims that broadcaster Moja Love has strongly denied.

Speaking to Sunday World, Mahlalentabeni’s sister, Nomvula Makena, said the family was traumatised by what they witnessed and genuinely believed they had lost her.

Now that she is conscious, Nomvula says the fear has shifted to preventing a recurrence.

“We are scared she would do something like this again. Even now, she keeps asking about the money Moja Love owes her,” she said.

According to the family, Mahlalentabeni became increasingly distressed after allegedly not being paid for her work while some of her co-stars received their salaries.

“She was hurting because only Dabula and Maseko were paid,” Nomvula claimed.

The family further alleges that their sister faced ongoing pressure and humiliation, including harsh social media attacks after she voiced her frustrations.

“People were sent to comment nasty things about our poor situation at home… She told me she did not deserve what they were doing to her,” Nomvula said.

In another serious accusation, the family claims that when Mahlalentabeni followed up about her outstanding payment, she was told production had ended and advised to seek help on social media.

They also allege she endured abuse during filming that was never aired, but felt forced to continue working as the family’s main source of income.

Moja Love has dismissed all the claims.

The channel’s spokesperson, Nonzwakazi Cekete, said Mahlalentabeni’s difficulties were linked to personal and mental health challenges unrelated to the broadcaster, citing issues such as domestic disputes and missed filming days.

As the situation continues to unfold, Mahlalentabeni’s family says their priority is her recovery and safety, while questions around the allegations and her time on the show remain a subject of public debate.