Eastern Cape Mourns the Loss of Nkokheli “Volo Da Saint” Twabu

The Eastern Cape entertainment and cultural community has been left reeling after the tragic death of beloved event pioneer and creative visionary Nkokheli “Volo Da Saint” Twabu. Volo lost his life in a car accident near King Shaka International Airport in Durban on Sunday morning, a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the province and across South Africa’s entertainment landscape.

Volo Da Saint was more than just a talented entertainer; he was a dynamic builder of community, a promoter dedicated to uplifting rural spaces, and a proud representative of the Eastern Cape’s rich creative identity. His death has triggered an outpouring of grief, love, and gratitude from artists, fans, and community members whose lives he touched.

In a heartfelt statement released on Monday, Volo’s family expressed their profound sorrow and asked the public to grant them compassion and privacy as they navigate the unimaginable pain of losing him so suddenly.

“As we process and mourn his death, we request your prayers, consideration, and space. We know Volo shared his life with many people: friends, supporters, and fans,” the family shared.

Their words echo the sentiments of thousands across the Eastern Cape who considered Volo a symbol of pride, resilience, and possibility.

A Legacy That Reverberates Across the Eastern Cape

Soon after the news broke, social media platforms were filled with messages of shock and remembrance. Many tributes highlighted the tremendous influence Volo Da Saint had on the Eastern Cape’s evolving entertainment industry. For years, he worked tirelessly to bring nationally celebrated talent to rural areas often overlooked by mainstream promoters.

Metro FM award-winning artist Betusile Mcinga praised Volo not just as a skilled creative but as a generous spirit rooted in community upliftment. According to Mcinga, Volo’s charitable efforts and collaborative projects made him a pillar of pride in the province.

“He was more than an entertainer,” Mcinga said. “He was someone who cared deeply about uplifting the Eastern Cape and ensuring that local talent and communities were never left behind. His contribution extended far beyond the stage.”

Volo’s close friend DJ Mist SA paid a moving tribute, recalling him as a bold visionary with an extraordinary capacity to imagine and then manifest opportunities for others.

“You lived a full and purposeful life. You were a visionary and an exceptional risk-taker,” he wrote.

DJ Mist reflected on the uniqueness of Volo’s commitment to investing in rural areas such as Bizana. He acknowledged the financial and logistical challenges that often come with hosting large-scale events in less-developed regions, but said Volo embraced the challenge wholeheartedly.

“It’s rare for someone to invest heavily in a rural community. You knew the risks, but you didn’t care. You were determined to put Bizana on the national map—and you succeeded.”

One of Volo Da Saint’s most remarkable achievements was his ability to attract top-tier South African artists—names like AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, and many others—to perform in Bizana and surrounding areas. This was groundbreaking not only in terms of entertainment but also for local development.

Through his events, Volo generated over 100 temporary jobs each year, providing income opportunities for young people, vendors, technical crews, and local businesses. These gatherings also bolstered tourism, bringing visitors from across the province and beyond, injecting new life into the regional economy.

Volo Da Saint was also the mastermind behind the annual OR Tambo Homage Event, one of the Eastern Cape’s most anticipated December celebrations. What began as a tribute to the province’s iconic political hero grew into a massive cultural fixture, drawing thousands year after year.

This year’s edition, scheduled for 23 December, features a star-studded lineup including Dlala Thukzin, Kelvin Momo, Mafikizolo, Dumi Mkokstad, and Naledi Aphiwe. Sadly, the event now stands as part of Volo’s final legacy—one last reflection of his passion for honouring history, building community, and elevating the Eastern Cape’s cultural footprint.

As tributes continue to pour in, one sentiment appears over and over: Volo Da Saint’s passing leaves a void that will be incredibly difficult to fill.

“Your name will forever hold a prominent place in the historical records of both Bizana and the Eastern Cape,” DJ Mist SA declared.
“Beyond friendship, we shared immense respect for each other, both professionally and artistically.”

Volo Da Saint’s impact—measured not only in events hosted, artists elevated, or crowds entertained, but in the hope he inspired—will continue to shape the province for years to come.

Source- Fakaza