“He Looks So Good”: SA Amazed by Bongi’s Inspiring Rehab Transformation
- A video showed Bongi’s recovery journey at LADGAC rehab, earning praise from South Africans who were moved by his progress
- After initially going viral when Mr Moloto took him to rehab, Bongi has since been sharing his story in interviews
- The video captured a lighthearted moment of him making jokes, reassuring viewers that his road to recovery is filled with positivity
- Briefly News reached out to Antonette Maluka, a clinical psychologist post-internship, who shared her expert insights on the role of mental health, community intervention, and social media in addiction recovery
South Africans were left touched after seeing Bongi’s remarkable progress in rehab, with many praising his transformation and hoping his story inspires others to seek help.
Source: TikTok
A video posted by Facebook user Pontsho Thapedi on 11 September 2025 left South Africans impressed with the progress of Bongi, a young man who went viral months ago after being taken to rehab by Mr Moloto. The video, which quickly gained more than 6,400 likes and over 200 comments in just a day, showed Bongi looking healthier and happier as he interacted with the person filming. Netizens praised how far he has come, with many saying his transformation was inspiring to witness.
Bongi is currently still based at the LADGAC rehab centre, where he has been recovering after struggling with drug abuse. His initial viral moment happened when his parents called for help, and Mr Moloto stepped in to ensure he was admitted to rehab. Since then, Bongi has been more open about his journey, participating in interviews where he shares both the challenges and victories of his recovery. The latest video offered an update, showing him in good spirits and even joking about what visitors should bring him next time.
Bongi’s recovery journey at LADGAC rehab
The clip resonated with many South Africans who have followed his story from the beginning. The conversation in the video showed Bongi asking for chocolates and sweets, a lighthearted moment that reassured viewers of his improving state. For supporters, it was a reminder that recovery is a process that requires support, patience, and encouragement.
As the video circulated online, it sparked conversations about the importance of rehabilitation centres and the impact of giving people a second chance. Many felt Bongi’s journey was proof that no one is beyond help and that support systems play a vital role in fighting substance abuse. His progress continues to inspire thousands across Mzansi, with netizens hopeful that his story will encourage others to seek help and make positive changes.
Antonette spoke to Briefly News and highlighted that mental health support is central to long-term success in addiction recovery, especially for people with histories of trauma or homelessness. She explained that recovery is not only about sobriety but also about rebuilding emotional stability and identity. She said:
“Addiction doesn’t happen on its own; it is a result of childhood trauma, PTSD, grief, or chronic stress. For people who have experienced homelessness for a long time, the instability and too much exposure to violence, neglect, or abuse can create layers of psychological distress that need to be addressed for recovery to be successful.”
She also emphasised the importance of community intervention, noting that ordinary people can play a pivotal role in helping addicts begin their journey to recovery. She explained that genuine support from individuals like Mr Moloto can break cycles of isolation and neglect, helping addicts feel seen and motivated to change. She said:
“Community members are often the first point of contact; they see the person behind the addiction. Their belief in the person that they can change can inspire hope and a willingness to seek help.”
On the impact of social media, Antonette acknowledged that it can both empower and harm individuals in recovery. While viral attention can attract resources and reduce stigma, it can also strip away privacy and create unhealthy pressure. She said:
“Rehab and recovery require emotional safety and space to process deeply personal issues. Constant public attention can disrupt this and create pressure to ‘perform’ recovery, and raise anxiety. In some cases, people may relapse under the pressure of staying ‘perfect’ for an audience that expects instant change.”
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacted to the video
Peter Ramuhulu Madito wrote:
“Once upon a time, there was Bonga the encyclopaedia; now we have Bongi. Wow, this is really amazing.”
Ofentse Magopa said:
“Wow, he's gained weight.”
Koko Sewela Wa Rabapane commented:
“Oh, Bongi… I like him very much… personality ya gage and how he laughs THIXHO.”
Mmabasetsana Tsanga wrote:
“I don't like Bongi like this… I want him when he says switch the lights off, can I smoke? And the Bongi I know doesn't ask for any kind of donations. He does his nails without any help. Nna ke batla Bongi hleng, I miss him seriously, I want that drama shame.”
Mandla Spha Al Mohammed commented:
“Afterwards, friends are gonna drag him back into the mud.”
Tsholofelo Cat wrote:
“Yoh Bongi, the laugh is out of this world… and you even gained weight thanks to Ntate Moloto.”
Musa Nkuna commented:
“Lol, some people were blaming Mr Moloto, where are they now?”
Tshiamo Taunyane Mothupi wrote:
“Only Barbie Chronicles didn’t gain weight.”
Check out the Facebook reel below:
3 Briefly News stories about Bongi
- Bongi, who once became a viral figure through a light-hearted but troubled moment, returned to the spotlight.
- Viral internet sensation Bongi Namane shared a heartfelt video from rehab, thanking fans for their immense support.
- A powerful video documented a 35-year-old man's forced entry into rehabilitation, capturing his initial defiance towards recovery.
Source: Briefly News
