Popular South African rapper Kiernan Forbes popularly known to his fans as AKA, is in mourning following the untimely death of his fiancée Anele ‘Nellie’ Tembe.
Anele is said to have died on Sunday, April 11, after falling from the Pepperclub Hotel’s balcony located in the Central business district of Cape Town.
According to paramedics dispatched to the scene, the 22-year-old fell from the 10th floor sustaining severe injuries. Due to her injuries’ severity, their efforts to save her bore no fruits, and she was pronounced dead shortly after.
“Paramedics arrived to resuscitate her, but she had extensive injuries. When stabilizing the individual, her condition rapidly deteriorated and was sadly declared dead at the scene,” said Netcare 911 spokesperson Shawn Herbst.
Anele and Forbes’ families issued a joint statement shortly after to confirm the news of their kin’s untimely demise.
“It is with the deepest regret that we, the Tembe and Forbes families confirm the untimely passing of our beloved fiancée, daughter, sister, and daughter-in-law, Anele Tembe (22). Anele tragically passed on in the early hours of this morning, Sunday, April 11, 2021: read part of the statement.
They described Anele as an exceptional, gifted young woman who had so much going on for her.
AKA is said to be in an inconsolable state following the incident as close family members help him cope with the situation.
“We are still in shock and are dealing with our emotions as she was an exceptional and gifted young woman with so much life ahead of her. She had a sweet nature about her and was always nurturing to those around her. Her fiancé Kiernan Forbes is currently inconsolable and is surrounded by family and closest friends. At this hour of our grief, we humbly request that our families be given privacy and time to heal.”
Relationship
The “All Eyes On Me” singer proposed to Anele back in February 2021, and judging from their online posts, they were excited to take their relationship to the next phase.
“21/02/2021- On this day I said YES to the love of my life and best friend. Words cannot describe how grateful to be your life partner. Even though the highs and lows you have stood by me and I thank you, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, for loving me wholeheartedly and never giving up on us,” posted Anele.
At the time of her demise, the couple’s families had begun their dowry negotiation ceremony, traditionally known as Lobola, as they couldn’t wait to be officially together.
Asked about details of their traditional wedding in a previous interview, AKA responded saying, “Unfortunately, I cannot talk about that because it is not culturally appropriate as each family has their own ways of doing things traditionally.”
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Erica Arthur