Award-winning singer Rethabile Khumalo recently opened up about the deep pain she felt while celebrating her first birthday without her beloved mother, the late Afro-pop star Winnie Khumalo. Rethabile recently turned 30 on 9 September, making this milestone birthday even more emotional.

The Ntyilo-Ntyilo hitmaker candidly expressed how difficult it is to celebrate life without the person who gave it to you. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she wrote:

“NOTHING PREPARES YOU FOR THE PAIN YOU FEEL ON THE FIRST BIRTHDAY DAY WITHOUT YOUR MOTHER. ‘CELEBRATING’ THE DAY YOU WERE BORN WITHOUT THE HUMAN WHO GAVE YOU LIFE IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE. DAMN I MISS MY MOM.” She ended her message with heartbreak emojis, capturing the raw emotions she is currently facing.

Winnie Khumalo, a much-loved South African musician and actress, tragically passed away at the age of 51 after a short illness. Her death, confirmed by Sunday World, occurred on 7 January 2025 at her home. The news of her sudden passing left her family, friends, and fans in shock. Many have since remembered her for her powerful voice, stage presence, and her lasting contributions to the South African music and entertainment industry.

On social media, tributes poured in for Rethabile on her birthday, with fans and fellow musicians sending love and encouragement. Musician Candy Tsamandebele commented:

“I know how it feels my baby, she’s heavenly celebrating your birthday with you Rethabile. God bless you.”

Another Instagram user added: “Happy birthday nana. God bless you with everything you want and need in Jesus name.”

Despite her grief, Rethabile has found strength in honouring her mother’s memory through new ventures. In April this year, she launched her first mobile kitchen in Protea Glen, Ext 9, Cheesehood Avenue. The food business was a project close to her heart, one she had planned with her late mother during the Covid-19 pandemic.

She shared the story with TshisaLIVE: “My mom and I bought a food truck and we wanted to sell burgers. We realised we could handle it on our own and when we were supposed to launch it, my mother passed away. I wanted to carry on with her wishes to open the kitchen because she always believed in my cooking and most of the things I would do.”

Now, what began as a dream with her mom has finally come to life. Although she continues to grieve, Rethabile is finding ways to celebrate her mother’s legacy while pushing forward with strength and resilience.