HE moves from one funeral to another, offering comfort through song.
This is how Siphiwe Khoza from Tshwane earns his living.
As a funeral singer, he leads hymns, and in return, mourners donate to him.
Siphiwe is often seen collecting money as he sings, moving from one service to the next.
He shared that he has been performing at funerals for some time and said that's how he's made a name for himself.
"I love to sing, especially hymns. I've found that people are comforted by them. I select them carefully to soothe broken hearts," he said.
He feels his presence is always welcomed.
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"I've never encountered anyone who was mean. Singing comes from the heart, and so does the decision to donate. I'm truly grateful," he explained.
Siphiwe can attend up to five funerals a week. He said some people now preferred weekday burials for convenience.
"I'm there during the week and weekends," he said.
Driven by his passion for gospel music, Siphiwe doesn't wait for an invitation.
"Through my singing, I can transform even the dullest funeral into a lively one. People join in, and together, we sing," he said.
While he admits he doesn't earn much, he said it's enough to put food on the table.
Mourners appreciate his presence.
Gogo Emma Mkhwanazi said: "He sings and puts us in a praising mood. It sometimes feels like we're in church, not at a funeral."
Zwelakhe Ndlovu, another mourner, praised his contribution.
"He's not stealing from anyone. His purpose is to praise the Lord and heal broken families."
