FAREWELL TO A MAN WHO MADE US LAUGH AWAY OUR PROBLEMS
It is with deep sadness that we learnt of the passing of renowned eSwatini comedian, Lungelo “Smallz” Gina, in a car accident on Tuesday 24 October 2023.
The Bridge is saddened by the passing of such a dynamic entertainer whose contribution to our arts industry has been tremendous. On behalf of The Bridge publishers, editors, and freelancers, we convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, relatives, friends, colleagues in the arts industry, and the entire population of the Kingdom of eSwatini during this sad moment.
Please accept our warmest condolences; we are deeply sorry for the loss. Our thoughts and prayers as a publication are with you during this moment. We have so many fond memories of Smallz, particularly having partnered with him on a ground-breaking project about three months ago, as well as the recent podcast we did with him where he shared his refreshing views about the eSwatini arts landscape with our audiences.
The late popular Swazi comedian Lungelo Smallz Gina
Smallz died only when we were polishing the final stages of our project and the central role he was to play as a firm believer and supporter of The Bridge. Smallz was a jolly fellow, always kind and welcoming, and we will never forget the warmth with which he embraced us. We also thank him for being one of a few Swazis who believed in The Bridge vision, and its approach to news processing.
Most importantly, we appreciate his immense contribution to enhancing the happiness index of our nation, and for helping us laugh away our problems. Through his shows, productions, and other forms of engagements, we were all entertained unreservedly because the young man had a rare combination of compelling charisma and rare talent.
The car accident that claimed the life of Swazi comedian Lungelo Smallz Gina
We remember him for warming up our sitting rooms as we laughed endlessly at each and every joke that came out of his mouth – and, need we say, it was easy to laugh as soon as you met the man even before he spoke a word. Now, that was talent par excellence! He leaves behind a legacy of historic proportions, which will obviously inspire the next generation of Swazi comedians.
Farewell Lungelo! Our promise to you is that in your honour, we shall soon (in a matter of months) be launching the project that you so generously supported.
Statement issued by
Mandla Dlamini
Chairman, The Bridge Group