Death of Rev Dr Nkomfa Mkabile mourned

Messages of sympathy have started pouring in following the passing of  award-winning  gospel artist and pastor Nkomfa Mkabile on Wednesday evening. 

A Facebook post by friend and fellow musician Malibongwe Gcwabe was validated by an official statement on the star's Facebook page confirming that Reverend Dr Nkomfa Mkabile, aged 48,  had indeed passed away. 

"It is announced with sadness that Dr Nkomfa Mkabile has passed away this afternoon at about 5pm," the statement read.

According to the statement, he died in the presence of his wife, Reverand Unathi Mkabile, family and close friends after a short illness. 

"Nkomfa was a larger-than-life individual, a passionate preacher and founder of the the Bethel International Ministries, an award-winning gospel artist and a committed husband, father and friend.

"He had been active in politics where he was known for principled leadership and representation until he took ill a few days ago.

"His presence, like his devout breaking out in magnificent song in a moment - at the right time, will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege and honour of knowing him," it read.

Days before the Cape Town pastor passed away, a video had circulated of the star in hospital gearing Christians up for the Easter weekend.