Rebecca Malope, a South African gospel legend, during an interview on Cruise 5, November 2023 (picture via YouTube by Joab Frank Chakhaza).
The legendary South African gospel singer Rebecca Malope, who caused a stir last Saturday when she stumbled on stage at a funeral, feels that age is finally getting to her.
Malope, who only suffered minor injuries, said that her shoes were to fault for the incident, which caused a stir over the weekend in the South African gospel community.
Malope was present at the Durban ICC on Saturday for the funeral of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. “I was unable to attend the funeral in my trainers. I had to be respectful during Zanele’s memorial service. I tripped on stage because I was wearing high heels.”
Malope reported that after the fall, she had twisted her ankle and injured her knee. Maybe she was getting too old for the stage, she admitted. Even standing up was difficult for me because of the heels, and I ended up with an injured knee and twisted ankle.
Friends and family have been texting me since Saturday to see how I’m doing. She remarked, “I guess I’m becoming older and less vigorous. Malope expressed gratitude to the thousands of mourners who attended the late Mbokazi-Nkambule’s funeral service for giving her a joyous and colourful farewell, despite her personal misfortune.
Mariannhill Cemetery in Pinetown is where she was laid to rest. At Parklands Hospital, the former Ukhozi FM host passed away on Monday due to lung cancer.
“I thank God that my friend was given a dignified funeral and that her work was effectively shown, despite my repeated falls. My knee needs some TLC, so I’m looking forward to relaxing and using ointments at home. God be praised, only minor injuries occurred.