
It’s never easy to process loss, especially when it hits so close to home. On September 2nd, the beloved son of popular sangoma and podcaster Gogo Skhotheni, Monde Jnr Shange, passed away after a long and challenging battle in the ICU. The news was shared in a statement that called for privacy as the family navigates this painful time. It’s a sentiment we can all understand – grief is a deeply personal journey, and sometimes, all we can do is respect the space that families need to heal.
Monde’s story is one of resilience and heartbreak. Born without an oesophagus, he faced nearly two years of hospital stays and surgeries, fighting for a chance at life. Gogo Skhotheni, who has gained fame for her spiritual work and recent foray into DJing, was a constant presence by her son’s side. She often shared how difficult it was to express her feelings while he was in a hospital bed, which is why she chose to get a tattoo of his face on her hand – a permanent reminder of her love and connection to him.
In a recent emotional farewell, Gogo Skhotheni broke down as she spoke about her son, emphasizing that people often don’t understand her story and should refrain from judging her choices. She also addressed rumors that she had left her son to undergo cosmetic surgery, firmly stating that her focus was always on him. It’s clear that her love for Monde was unwavering, and her commitment to being there for him was evident in her daily visits to the hospital.

As the family laid Monde to rest, his tombstone quickly became a trending topic on social media, with many speculating about its cost, reportedly around R1 million. This sparked a mix of reactions, with some praising Gogo Skhotheni for honoring her son in such a grand way, while others questioned the extravagance during a time of mourning. Regardless of opinions, it’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently, and what might seem excessive to one may be a necessary tribute to another.
The tattoo that Gogo Skhotheni got of her son is a beautiful gesture of love and remembrance. In her words, “His smile heals you.” It’s a testament to the bond they shared, one that transcended the challenges they faced. She mentioned that even during her visits to comfort him, it was often Monde who ended up comforting her. That’s the power of love – it can uplift even in the darkest times.
As the family continues to mourn, we can only hope they find solace in the memories of Monde and the love that surrounded him. Gogo Skhotheni has always been open about her journey, and her willingness to share her story reminds us that behind every headline, there’s a human experience filled with love, pain, and resilience. Let’s honor Monde’s memory by respecting the family’s need for privacy and extending compassion during this difficult time.