Nandi Madida Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Young Rugby Star Luqobo ‘Bibo’ Makwedini

OkMzansi | 13.07.2026 19:37

Media personality and singer Nandi Madida has joined many South Africans in mourning the tragic passing of promising young rugby player Lugobo “Bibo” Makwedini. The star shared a touching tribute on social media, sending her condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

In her emotional message, Nandi reflected on the impact the young rugby player had on so many people, even though they never had the chance to meet.

She wrote, “What a promising young talent. I never had the privilege of knowing him personally, but our family absolutely loved his chants.

“Rest in peace, young man. What a powerful legacy you’ve left at such a young age. Thank you for bringing so much joy to this country. My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Lugobo “Bibo” Makwedini’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

Makwedini was a promising young South African rugby player. The former Wynberg Boys’ High School pupil and SA Under-18 prop sadly passed away at the age of 20 in France on July 10, 2026, after collapsing during a training session with his French club, AS Béziers Hérault.

His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from people who admired his talent and believed he had a bright future ahead of him.

According to eNCA, his uncle, Mphumzi Zuzile, said the family is still trying to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss.

“As a family, we are still shocked by this horrific tragedy. He had just left last week for France, after a five-week vacation. He was in good spirits. And when we got the news yesterday that he is no more, it shocked the entire family.

“We are in consultation with his club and we are trying to ensure his body is repatriated to South Africa. We will give more details about the funeral sometime next week.

“We are very sad. We request the community and people out there to give us space as a family while we deal with the tragedy,” said Zuzile.

Makwedini’s passing has left many South Africans heartbroken. While his rugby career was only beginning, many believe he had already made a lasting impact through his talent, passion for the sport and the joy he brought to those who supported him. Tributes continue to pour in as the country remembers a young athlete whose life ended far too soon.

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