She sits on the mourner's mattress in the lounge of her home, welcoming guests and comforters helping her to mourn her late husband. She is flanked by close family and extended family members. Barely able to say a word and with eyes swollen from crying, Gqom singer Bongekile ?Babes Wodumo' Simelane-Maphumulo extends both hands as a greeting, welcoming the eThekwini Municipal Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda who is paying his respects to the family."Siyabonga baba," she thanked him and then sits back looking at the ground for answers.

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BABES IN MOURNING?

It has been four days since Mampintsha died after suffering a stroke. The Ngeke singer was hospitalised after a minor stroke and took his last breath on Saturday 24 December while being treated in the hospital. According to a friend, Babes Wodumo, family and friends have been struggling to process the information. "She barely speaks. Babes is at a loss for words. I think she is still in disbelief. But she is stronger than we all thought she would be. Maybe she will break down at the funeral. But all is still a big  blur for everyone."

THE MAYORAL VISIT

The eThekwini Municipal Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda has visited the late kwaito star's family at his home to offer the mourning family his support. The mayor was accompanied by musician DJ Sox, Dj Tira, Tzozo, and some friends of the late artist. In their words of comfort, they shared some fond memories of Mampintsha which helped put a smile on Babes Wodumo's face.

FUNERAL DETAILS

Mampintsha's memorial service will be held tomorrow at Pastor Vusi Dube's church, Ethekwini Community Centre (ECC), Durban, and the funeral at Durban ICC on 30 December, at 9AM.