Ex-Chiefs defender and SABC analyst Siphiwe ‘Dr Mnandi’ Mkhonza dies

Popular SABC analyst and ex-Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United defender Siphiwe ‘Dr Mnandi’ Mkhonza (44) has died.

Mkhonza reportedly passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

He is suspected to have succumbed to a kidney infection after a lengthy battle suffering from the disease.

Recently, Dr Mnandi was admitted at Charlotte Maxeke and was discharged after showing some signs of recovery.

Mkhonza is survived by his three children, father Joseph Mkhonza and his mother Phindile Mkhonza.

A statement from Mkhonza’s family read: “The family of the former Golden Arrows and Kaizer Chiefs defender Siphiwe Mkhonza confirms he sadly passed on in the early hours of this [Tuesday] morning at home.

“Mkhonza, affectionately known as ‘Dr Mnandi’ at his current employer, SABC, was suffering from kidney infection for a long time.”

“He was admitted at Charlotte Maxeke [Hospital in Johannesburg] a month ago and was released after showing signs of recovery. Mkhonza was being taken care of by his girlfriend and mother of his three children, Nondumiso Masengemi, at their home in Roodepoort.

“The family wishes to thank his former employer and his colleagues at SABC, fellow football legends from the stable he belonged to and friends for their support during his illness.”

“Mkhonza is survived by his children, his father, Joseph ‘Skheshe Kheshe’ Mkhonza [who also played for Chiefs], his mom, Phindile Mkhonza, and his brother. The family will communicate further details regarding funeral arrangements.”

TV commentator Duane Dell’Oca, who also worked with Mkhonza at SABC, posted on X: “I am devastated by the news of Siphiwe Mkhonza’s untimely passing.

“A great player and a joyful man with a zest for life, we had many years of fun together. He was so cool that he commentated with a cap on under his headphones. Condolences to his family and friends. RIP Dr Mnandi.”

His former club Kaizer Chiefs also released a statement saying; “RIP Siphiwe Mkhonza. 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.

“We wish them strength and comfort. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”