Arthur Mafokate Announces the Death of Father Enos Mafokate, South Africa’s First Black Show Jumper

• Arthur Mafokate shared an official family statement on Instagram announcing the death of his father, Enos Mafokate
• Enos was a trailblazing South African equestrian widely recognised as the first Black show jumper in the country
• The Mafokate family said memorial and funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course

Kwaito legend Arthur Mafokate has shared heartbreaking news with his followers, announcing the passing of his father, Enos Mafokate, in an official family statement posted to Instagram on Thursday, 3 September 2026. The post described Enos as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor and a pioneering figure in South African equestrianism.

Enos Mafokate carved out a remarkable place in South African sporting history as the country's first Black show jumper, breaking barriers at a time when such spaces were far from welcoming to Black athletes. Arthur Mafokate's father founded a riding school that gave generations of young South Africans access to the sport, a legacy that earned him the title "Kgosi Ya Dipere", the King of Horses.

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The official statement from the Mafokate family read:

"It is with profound sadness that the Mafokate family announces the passing of our beloved Enos Mafokate — husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor and pioneering South African equestrian. We are deeply saddened by his passing and immensely proud of the extraordinary life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. His legacy will live on."

The family confirmed that memorial and funeral arrangements would be shared with the public in due course.

Mzansi mourns with the Mafokate family

Tributes poured in from across the country as news of Enos's passing spread. Below are some of the heartfelt messages shared:

@oskidoibelieve wrote:

"My King, may God strengthen and comfort you and the entire Mafokate family. May Papa's soul rest in eternal peace. His legacy will live on. 🙏🏾🕊️"

@thembiseete_ said:

"Condolences, Lolo. Sending warm hugs and praise to you and your family. 🙏🏾❤️👑"

@fikilembalula shared:

"Condolences to the Mafokate family. May his soul rest in eternal peace. The great tree has fallen; he was a treasure. He loved and respected everyone; what a soul. 👏🙌 Modimo Le badimo babe lelona we share your grief."

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@djdinobravo offered these words:

"My deepest condolences, my brother. There are moments in life when words simply aren't enough, and this is one of them. Some people leave this world, but the love they gave us never leaves. It stays with us in our hearts, in our memories, and in the lives they touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. 🙏🏾"

Gospel singer @winnie_mashaba also responded with:

"Deepest condolences. 😢"

Arthur Mafokate remembers Brenda Fassie

In a previous report, Briefly News reported that Arthur Mafokate remembered his time with the late Brenda Fassie, reflecting on their encounter in London and teaching her the iconic Twalatsa dance.

Mafokate expressed a longing for the return of such memorable moments, emphasising the beauty of South Africa.

Source: Briefly News