By Celani Sikhakhane
- The eff and anc praised Gumbi as a powerful voice who comforted the poor and working class during KwaZulu-Natal’s bloody political violence in the 1990s.
- Despite losing his leg to illness, Gumbi carried on preaching and inspiring millions through his Ukhozi fm show and church work until his death on Monday.
Pastor Simon SD Gumbi, the man who brought hope into homes across South Africa with his booming sermons, has died aged 66.
Gumbi, known for his long-running Ukhozi fm programme Unkulunkulu Nomuntu Omusha, passed away on Monday after a long illness. He had battled through serious health problems, including losing a leg, but stayed on the pulpit to the very end.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (eff) in KwaZulu-Natal described him as “a vessel of divine purpose, a compassionate teacher and a true servant of God.” Spokesperson Chris Chili said: “Through his radio programme he was widely loved. He was a comforting voice in the homes of millions of South Africans, ministering to people from all walks of life, particularly the poor and the working class.”
The African National Congress (anc) called him “a revered servant of God and a thunderous voice in the gospel community whose influence stretched far beyond church walls.”
“Even in the face of immense personal suffering, including the amputation of his leg due to illness, Bishop Gumbi remained on the pulpit, encouraging others to hold onto faith and trust in God’s purpose. He exemplified courage through pain, turning personal trials into powerful testimony,” the party said.
Gumbi became famous in the 1990s as his sermons brought calm and healing during the bloody political violence that left more than 20,000 dead in KwaZulu-Natal. His signature phrase “U-Amen usekhona?” became a Sunday night anthem.
The anc said his presence was “a beacon of light wherever darkness loomed.” They praised his work for “spiritual upliftment, moral regeneration, and social cohesion,” calling him a unifier and a champion of love and compassion.
Though based in Standerton, Mpumalanga, Gumbi’s ministry reached far beyond his hometown. He walked with the brokenhearted, prayed with the sick and comforted those in despair across the country.
His death has left the gospel world, and the countless lives he touched, in mourning.
Pictured above: EFF and ANC unite to bid farewell to Pastor Bishop Simon SD Gumbi.
Image source: Facebook
