Cause of death revealed as South Africa remembers football Icon Siphiwe Mkhonza

FOOTBALL Cause of death revealed as South Africa remembers football Icon Siphiwe Mkhonza

Festus Chuma 10:41 - 06.03.2024

South African football is mourning the loss of Siphiwe Mkhonza, a revered former player and analyst, who passed away early Tuesday at 44.

On Tuesday, the South African football community was engulfed in mourning following the death of Siphiwe Mkhonza, a revered former Kaizer Chiefs defender and celebrated football analyst. 

Mkhonza passed away in the early hours of the day at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, as confirmed by his father, Joseph Mkhonza - a respected figure in South African football himself - to the South African Football Association (SAFA).

Siphiwe Mkhonza, aged 44, was not only known for his versatile playing style but also his insightful analysis of the game, earning him the affectionate nickname Dr Mnandi by fans and colleagues alike. 

His death, which has been attributed to a long battle with a kidney infection, marks a significant loss to not only his family but also the larger football fraternity in South Africa and beyond.

Joseph Mkhonza expressed his grief, highlighting the shock and devastation the family is currently experiencing. 

"We are devastated as a family and we are in shock," he stated. "We were looking forward to so much from him and we thought he would recover. I am at a loss for words."

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), where Mkhonza served as an analyst, released a statement detailing the cause of his death. 

"Mkhonza, affectionally known as 'Dr Mnandi' from his current employer SABC, has been suffering from a kidney infection for a long time. Siphiwe was off-sick for a while and was unable to work due to illness. He will be missed by his colleagues and followers/viewers/listeners," the statement read.

SAFA President Dr. Danny Jordaan also paid tribute to Mkhonza, acknowledging his significant contribution to South African football both on and off the pitch. 

"The country has lost yet another giant, a versatile player during his time and an intelligent individual," Jordaan remarked. "This is a sad day for South African football. May his soul Rest in Peace."

Throughout his career, he represented several clubs, including SuperSport United, AmaZulu, Maritzburg United, and Golden Arrows, but his tenure at Kaizer Chiefs was particularly notable, where he won his first league title and earned a call-up to the national team, accruing seven international caps.

Following his retirement from active play in 2012, Mkhonza transitioned to broadcasting, where he leveraged his experience and knowledge of the game to become a respected football analyst, beloved by many for his humour, thorough analysis, and incisive commentary.

Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more news.