The man behind the Madiba shirt and dressing the late President Nelson Mandela, Sonwabile Ndamase, has been hit by a mild stroke. A close family friend confirmed to ZiMoja that he is currently under medical supervision at a Johannesburg public hospital.
HOSPITALISED
The Libode-born fashion designer apparently woke up feeling numb on his left-hand side and was quickly rushed to the hospital. "The doctor diagnosed him with a clot in his body that caused a mild stroke." According to a family member he is downplaying his illness,but he is struggling with his eyesight and his mobility. "His hands have been affected. We pray that he will be okay."
Last year, he started filming a documentary on 30 Years of the Madiba Shirt with Unathi Nkayi and other young designers. This is also the election year in South Africa and as part of the project, Ndamase was in the process of mentoring young designers with whom he will collaborate and design a 30th-anniversary shirt. They will be mentored by Asanda Madyibi, Mzukisi Mbane from Imprint and Andiswa Manxiwa will be the creative director.
FAST RECOVERY
Nolulabalo Mcinga Dalindyebo, better known as Queen Khazeka, is a close friend of Sonwabile. She expressed her distress over this sudden turn of events, suggesting that she believes it may be more than just a medical issue. Queen Khazeka Nolubabalo Mcinga says his hospitalisation seems like a spiritual attack, given his recent success and positive outlook. "This unfortunate situation serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones while we can," she says. She sends her thoughts and prayers to Sonwabile Ndamase for a swift and full recovery. "The news came as a shock to me, Sonwabile called me a few days ago sharing news about his eye diagnosis, waiting for results and going on operation next week," she says. "Faku is vibrant spirit and remarkable creativity. As a close friend and confidante, Sonwabile has touched the lives of many with his talent and warm personality, making this development especially difficult to comprehend. He is my go-to person and my best friend if I can claim to that extent. I was busy with his documentary pre-production with my team and now this."
