In the dynamic landscape of South African music, Babes Wodumo’s latest appearance has sparked a wave of positive reactions from her dedicated fanbase. Known for her electrifying contributions to the Gqom genre, Babes, born Bongekile Simelane, has recently been the subject of widespread admiration for her noticeable weight gain, signaling a period of personal growth and recovery.
Following a challenging phase marked by the loss of her husband, Mandla “Mampintsha” Maphumulo, a member of Big Nuz, Babes’s physical transformation has become a beacon of her resilience. The beloved Wololo hitmaker, who is also a mother, was seen looking healthier in a photo shared from inside a plane, with visibly fuller cheeks—a change that fans have warmly embraced.
Supporters quickly took to social media to express their admiration for Babes’s newfound health and vitality. Comments ranged from commendations on her “good looks” and the “whiteness of her eyes” to broader affirmations of her overall well-being. This shift comes after speculative reports in July 2023 concerning Babes’s health, which suggested she was battling a severe illness, rumored to be lung-related. Despite these concerns, her sister and manager, Nondimuso Simelane, assured the public that Babes was in good health, further corroborated by subsequent sightings of the singer fulfilling various professional commitments.
In 2024, Babes Wodumo has shown remarkable determination, staying “booked and busy.” Despite facing allegations related to gig cancellations and financial disputes, she has continued to grace the stage at significant events, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) manifesto launch in February, followed by a performance for the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. These appearances not only underscore her commitment to her career but also signify her journey back to the vibrant and dynamic performer beloved by many.
Babes Wodumo’s resurgence is a testament to her strength and the support of her fans, who stand by her through every high and low. As she navigates this new chapter, her story remains a source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of resilience and renewal in the face of adversity.
