By Michelle Ndaga
South African businessman Mandla Mthembu, once known for his immense wealth and flamboyant lifestyle, has died in New York at the age of 68. His family confirmed that he passed away after suffering two strokes.
Mthembu rose to prominence in the mid-2000s through successful ventures in construction and mining, amassing considerable wealth and becoming a recognizable figure in high-society circles. He often made headlines for his displays of opulence, from luxury cars to extravagant events.
In 2007, Mthembu married media personality Khanyi Mbau, with whom he had a daughter. The marriage, however, ended in 2010 amid reports of abuse and financial troubles, marking the beginning of a sharp decline in his fortunes. In later years, he retreated from the public eye and lived a more reclusive life.
News of his death has sparked a wave of tributes on social media, particularly from entertainment and business figures who remembered his influence, charisma, and controversial public life. Many highlighted his dramatic journey from wealth and glamour to hardship and quiet withdrawal.
Mthembu’s passing closes a chapter on one of South Africa’s most talked-about personalities, remembered both for his business acumen and the turbulence that shaped his personal and public legacy.
