Just as the country was grappling with the death of veteran playwright Mbongeni Ngema on the tail end of 2023, another death in the South African broadcasting industry was announced.
On 29 December, the body of Mthobeli August, fondly known as KCi on the uMhlobo Wenene airwaves was discovered by his family at his Johannesburg home.
Ever since the news broke, KCi has been celebrated as a radio presenter who was “ahead of his time”.
The 47-year-old is also hailed as a humorous broadcaster who, over the years, amassed thousands of fans with his unique style of presenting, as the family statement reads.
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) praised him as “a revered radio broadcaster and an artistic soul”.
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“He possessed the rare ability to captivate audiences during off-peak and homeward-bound hours, keeping them glued to their radios with his artistic brilliance. As a fearless and principled broadcaster, KCi Mthobeli August utilised his platform to stand firm for truth in his own unique way. His unwavering dedication to integrity, coupled with his exceptional storytelling prowess, made him a cherished figure among listeners and a stalwart in the broadcasting industry.
“His impact stretched beyond the airwaves, resonating deeply within the hearts of his audience and leaving an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural landscape. KCi Mthobeli August’s commitment to his craft and his ability to infuse truth into his work set him apart as a beacon of honesty and authenticity.”
Even with the controversies that had surfaced during his time at the Xhosa radio station and after being let go, KCi soldiered on and was mostly out of the spotlight.
As condolences continue to pour in for the presenter, his remains are expected to arrive at his home in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday where the funeral service is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 6 January 2024.
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Premier Oscar Mabuyane, executive mayor Anele Ntsangani of Amathole district municipality and mayor of Raymond Mhlaba municipality Nomhle Sango have since extended their condolences and offered their support to the family.
“In partnership with friends all over the country and former Thubalethu high school students, the family is organising a dignified farewell for Mthobeli Casey August. To accommodate those unable to attend in person, the funeral service will be live-streamed on Keith Ngesi’s facebook page and Youtube channel,” reads the radio station’s statement.
