They are in disbelief and unable to speak. The Ranaka family is grieving the loss of Katlego Ranaka who is a mom, actress and eldest daughter to award-winning star Manaka Ranaka.

GRIEF

The Generations: The Legacy actress who played the role of Lucy Diale confirmed the news of her daughter's passing on social media. "Oh my beautiful angel, #RIPKatlegoRanaka," she wrote. Manaka told ZiMoja she was in no position to talk about her grief as yet. "Please give us time to process all of this."

LOSS

The Ranaka family shared in a statement that Katlego passed on Thursday, however did not reveal the cause of her passing. "It is with heavy hearts that we share the sorrowful news of the passing of our cherished Katlego 'KG' Ranaka on 23 January." They asked for time to mourn. "The Ranaka family humbly requests your prayers and respect for their privacy during this profoundly challenging time. Further details regarding her farewell will be communicated in due course," the statement read. Katlego will be remembered for the joy and inspiration she brought to the South African entertainment scene.' Following in her mom's footsteps, Katlego was a budding actress, singer, upcoming radio presenter and DJ.

PARENTING

Manaka said in a previous interview that she shared a bond with her daughters and her parenting style is free yet stern and she tries not to be too controlling. "I tell my children to choose what is right from wrong and encourage them to follow career paths that they love." Manaka said her daughter Katlego was "a sweetheart due to not having typical teenager-related issues' which was pleasantly surprising." Her sister, Thandokuhle, shared a video on social media and captioned it: "My angel, my first love, my soul sista. Never did I think that this day would come so soon. My heart is broken, you have left me with a wound that I don't know how to heal. Until I find the words, till we meet again. I will love you forever."

• Additional reporting: Theo Nyhaba