MEC Mbali Hlophe comments on her visit with Legendary Zola 7

The Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Ms Mbali Hlophe, together with officials from the provincial and national department visited one of South Africa’s iconic artists, a musician, actor, writer, and poet, named Bonginkosi Dlamini, popularly known as Zola 7.

The visit takes place soon after troubling pictures of him were circulating, portraying the artist in a sad state of affairs.

Having spent much of the day with him, fellow artists and the family, his partner indicated that the pictures circulating on social media are not recent pictures but were taken two years ago when Zola was terribly ill.

Whilst not fully recovered and still requiring attention, he is in a better state and has been able to relay to the MEC some of the financial difficulties he is confronted with, to which the Department has committed to work with him and integrate him within its programs.

In this regard, the department has offered Zola a three-phase intervention plan that will not only focus on his wellbeing (health) but also ensure a functional structure that is resourceful and sustainable. The intervention will see the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation working closely with Zola through the SILAPHA wellness program. Additionally, the Department is exploring a partnership with artists he has collaborated with, who seek to host a Benefit Concert to alleviate his current financial challenges. This however is still at an infancy phase and subject to Covid-19 Regulations.

All in all, the visit turned into a very interesting and eye-opening conversation, as there were family, friends and other industry peers who had some interesting inputs to share as it relates to the arts, and its critical role in shaping society, mental health and financial management in the entertainment industry.

“Following the visit, I’m comforted that he’s in a better state than he was the last time we visited. Whilst not fully recovered, consistent participation within the SILAPHA Wellness Program will aid in this path to recovery.
Zola remains an icon, and we thank society for showing him love while still alive,” says MEC Mbali Hlophe.