Katlego Sekhu

South African musician Babes Wodumo has once again opened her heart to fans and followers.
This time with a deeply personal tribute to her late husband, Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo, on what would have been his birthday.
The Gqom Queen took to social media to honour the man she affectionately called Babazi.
“Happy heavenly birthday, Babazi,” she began, in a heartfelt message that stirred emotion across the country. “Today is your birthday and a day we celebrate you. We argued your whereabouts, but every moment and second, I think of you.”
While Babes didn’t shy away from acknowledging the complex nature of their relationship, her tribute made it clear that love still endures beyond loss.
“I will forever cherish you and love you,” she wrote. “I am who I am because of you, Mabhebeza.”
Since Mampintsha’s passing in December 2022 following a stroke, Babes has had to navigate not only grief, but motherhood, public scrutiny, and the weight of continuing both of their musical legacies.
“I will forever embrace you and love you till I fulfil our promise to one another,” her message continued. “Every single moment without you is a moment I wish you were here to spend with me, Babazi.”
The tribute drew an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists.
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