Radio and television personality Velani “Vee” Mthembu joins Nonhlanhla “Mroza” Buthelezi on the breakfast show, bringing fresh energy to kick-start the day.
Image: Facebook/Vee Mthembu
Ukhozi FM has unveiled its refreshed 2026 programming lineup, effective on April 1, 2026.
With over 7.5 million weekly listeners, the refreshed lineup marks an exciting new chapter for the station following the appointment of a new management team.
Radio and television personality Velani “Vee” Mthembu joins Nonhlanhla “Mroza” Buthelezi on the breakfast show (06.00am–09.00), bringing fresh energy to kick start the day.
Mthembu steps into the shoes of Sipho Mbatha, widely known as DJ Sgqemeza. The leading voice on Ukhozi FM reportedly requested to be moved from the station’s prime-time breakfast slot to an evening show due to growing church commitments.
The lunchtime slot (12h30–15h00) sees Siphesihle Shabalala, better known as DJ SpheLive, teaming up with Zimiphi “Zimdollar” Biyela for a lively and engaging midday experience.
DJ SpheLive replaces Sfiso “KingSfso” Sibiya, who has left Ukhozi FM after seven years. He bid farewell to his supporters and listeners in a statement shared on social media. He also revealed that he would be taking a break from radio for a few months.
Drive time gets even more exciting as Sthandwa Nzuza joins the prime-time team, co-hosting Woza Nabangani Bakho alongside Khathide “Tshatha” Ngobe, creating a vibrant duo for the afternoon commute.
Nzuza returned to Ukhozi FM last year, hosting a Saturday show and now moves to the weekday, following Selby “Selbeyonce” Mkhize’s departure after 13 years at the station.
The station also pays tribute to veteran broadcaster Mandla Mdletshe, who will be retiring after an outstanding 27 years of dedicated service with the SABC, all of which were spent at Ukhozi FM.
At the time of his retirement, he served as Senior Producer: Mandate, and has over the years, acted in various positions within the station’s programming department, demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment.
Widely regarded as an icon on the airwaves, Mdletshe is celebrated for his significant contribution to Jazz and Agricultural programming, as well as his profound knowledge and preservation of the isiZulu language, which greatly enriched the station. His name has become synonymous with the Ukhozi FM brand.
“Ukhozi FM extends its heartfelt gratitude for his invaluable contribution and wishes him well in his retirement.”
Lwazi Mthabela, Ukhozi FM Business Manager, said, “Our refreshed on-air line-up signals an exciting new chapter for Ukhozi FM, one that is firmly rooted in our commitment to evolve with our listeners while preserving the essence that makes the station a beloved companion to millions.
“As we look to the future, we are focused on delivering dynamic, relevant, and engaging content that continues to resonate across generations. We also take this moment to acknowledge and sincerely thank all presenters who have contributed to the station’s success over the years.
“Their passion and dedication have helped shape Ukhozi FM into the powerhouse it is today. We extend our special appreciation to Mandla Mdletshe for his invaluable contribution to the station and its listeners.”
IOL