Kwaito Star Mapaputsi Bedridden Amid Health Struggles
Beloved South African kwaito artist Sandile Ngwenya, popularly known as Mapaputsi, has been reportedly bedridden at his Soweto home since late 2023 due to ongoing health issues.
Health Struggles
According to sources close to the musician, Mapaputsi fell ill towards the end of 2023 and has since not been in good shape. A friend revealed, “He hasn’t been in good shape since October and has been bedridden since. He doesn’t want the news of his ill health to bother his fans, as he believes he’ll be fine.”

 

 

 

Another insider shared that despite his family’s urging, Ngwenya has been reluctant to seek hospital care. “He’ll be fine, but to be honest, he’s not doing so well, which is why he’s being advised to go to the hospital where he’ll get the help he desperately needs.”

Mapaputsi’s family is increasingly worried about his health and wishes he would get professional medical help. His manager, known as Gee, expressed optimism, stating that Mapaputsi is a fighter and has always been resilient.

Career Highlights and Future Plans
Mapaputsi gained widespread recognition in the South African music scene with hits like “Izinja.” He made headlines in 2022 during his appearance on MaCg’s Podcast and Chill, where he shared insights into his life and career. Ngwenya revealed that he was born at the ZCC headquarters, Moria in Limpopo, and spoke about his friendships with Brenda Fassie and Arthur Mafokate.

In a 2022 interview with TshisaLIVE, Mapaputsi mentioned his plans to release a new album and his desire to assist new artists in navigating the music industry. “I want to help know the truth about the entertainment industry and for them to know their rights within the space, so they don’t get exploited. Music is a steppingstone. They will start there and pursue other things because music opens doors,” he said ahead of the Strictly Kwaito Legends Festival.

Public Reaction to Recent Interviews
Mapaputsi’s appearance on MaCg’s Podcast and Chill sparked significant reaction from fans and fellow artists alike.

Twitter user @Menzi__Nxumalo commented, “The Mapaputsi interview was not for children from the burbs. Too much tsotsi lingo and you can’t trust MacG with such. He was giggling, lost throughout.”

Another user, @MissLuvo_Lee, noted, “To be honest, Mapaputsi did not need MacG or Sol in this episode, he interviewed himself, just like the Israel episode.”Popular DJ Sbu praised Mapaputsi’s storytelling skills, tweeting, “@Mapaputsi3 is a dope storyteller. Real, raw, kasi and extremely funny! Congratulations gents, thanks for the inspiration.”

Current Status
The South African attempted to contact Mapaputsi for a comment on Saturday, but he was unavailable at the time of publishing this article.

Mapaputsi’s fans and the South African music community remain hopeful for his recovery and continue to send their support during this challenging time.