Popular South African musician Siyabonga Nene, better known as Big Zulu, has been discharged from hospital following a serious car accident on Sunday, 26 January.
The Imali Eningi hitmaker was involved in a single-vehicle accident in Germiston, Gauteng, when his BMW 325i convertible veered off the road and into bushes. He was swiftly transported to Alberton Netcare Hospital for treatment.
News of the accident broke on Monday, 27 January, when Big Zulu’s record label, Inkabi Records, released a statement on Facebook requesting prayers for the musician. The post read: “Nkabi Nation, it’s sad to announce that Big Zulu was involved in a car accident last night. Please keep him in your prayers.”
The announcement sparked an immediate outpouring of support and well wishes from fans across the country. Social media was flooded with messages of concern and prayers for Big Zulu’s recovery. Cnera Casenover wrote: “Speed recovery nkabi n̈ation, don’t worry we got you in our prayers, you will come out of this stronger.”
Mamtolo Tarshiza Bunwana added: “Ohhhh marn speedy recovery brother may God touch you with his hand and you get healed soon.” Amanda Moyo’s comment highlighted the concern felt by many: “First it was Xolwa now it’s Big Zulu what’s going. Speedy recovery to him.”
By Tuesday, 28 January, Big Zulu had been discharged from hospital and took to Facebook himself to express his gratitude for the overwhelming support he had received. In a message to his fans, he stated: "Nkabi Nation, I would like to thank you all for your prayers. I’m safe and well. Thank you to the hospital doctors and nurses for your love and care. I’m well and alive." Despite repeated attempts by Daily Sun to reach Big Zulu for further comment, they were unsuccessful.
Big Zulu’s accident comes at a time when he has been outspoken about the challenges of fame and the rumours that often accompany success. In 2024, he publicly addressed speculation surrounding his achievements, attributing his success to hard work, divine blessing, and ancestral support rather than any form of dark magic.
Speaking to BrieflySA, he stated: “Things are tough, Nkabi Nation. Many of you saw me struggle, day and night, trying to create a better life for myself and my family. Through my efforts, what God has blessed me with and my ancestors, my success has been plagued by rumours and hate.”
He continued, detailing the negativity he has faced: “People say ‘Zulu has a snake’, ‘Zulu is going to die’ and whatnot. There are videos on TikTok where people are dragging my name. All of this is happening because I am successful… But this is what I want you guys to know: all that is happening to me is not because of me, but it is because of God. He knows where my life will end up. So, you can create all of these videos saying I am going to die, relax, I am not shaken at all.”
