JOHANNESBURG - In the true spirit of Ubuntu, South Africans have rallied together to raise more than R150,000 for KwaZulu-Natal-born kwaito star Thokozani Ndlovu, popularly known as L'vovo.
The fundraising drive follows an emotional interview Ndlovu gave to Gagasi FM over the weekend, in which he opened up about his recovery after suffering a near-fatal stroke in December 2022.
The medical emergency forced him to step away from the spotlight to focus on his health.
Ndlovu had been performing at a show in Ndwedwe when he suffered the stroke, which resulted in the left side of his body being weakened and also affected his speech.
During the interview, which resonated with thousands online, the award-winning musician spoke candidly about his recovery and the harsh realities of the entertainment industry.
The Resista hitmaker revealed that after falling ill, he lost everything and had to move back home to Newcastle.
He added that he has since made significant progress. While he has regained much of his mobility, the fingers on his left hand remain affected and continue to be part of his recovery journey.
Moved by the interview, social media user Kenzie Qiniso Ndimande launched a fundraising campaign on Monday.
In a Facebook post, Ndimande wrote: "Please note that L'vovo did not ask for donations. Many people were touched by his interview, and from there, we decided to come together and support him."
Within seven hours, the campaign had raised more than R100,000 with contributions from ordinary South Africans and fellow musicians, including Limit Nala and Jumbo.