Hlengiwe Mhlaba

Hlengiwe Mhlaba: A Voice of Faith and Resilience 

Hlengiwe Mhlaba is one of South Africa’s most celebrated gospel singers and songwriters. Known for hits like” Sweet Jesus”,” Living Waters”, “Remember Me and Sewakhile”, Mhlaba has spent decades inspiring audiences with her voice and her message of faith. 

Born in 1973 in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, Mhlaba is 52 years old as of 2025. She trained as a teacher before dedicating her life to music, a path that would eventually earn her an honorary Doctorate in Theology from Immanuel University of Theology International in 2020. 

Mhlaba’s early life was marked by hardship. She grew up witnessing her mother endure abuse from her father, an experience that led to periods of depression in her youth. Speaking openly about mental health, Mhlaba encourages others to seek support and face their struggles rather than suffer in silence. 

Mhlaba is not married and has no biological children. She has said she has never had a partner and wears a ring to deter insincere suitors. While she remains open to marriage, her focus has always been on her music and ministry. 

Her music career began in her youth after she committed her life to Christ. Mhlaba first gained recognition in KwaZulu-Natal and Swaziland, performing for church audiences and building a loyal following. She released her breakthrough album, Dwala Lami, in 2005, which cemented her status as a leading gospel artist. 

Over the years, Mhlaba has released several albums, including” Hlala Kuye” (2009), “Laphalala Igazi” (2011),” Abba Baba” (2012), “Esandleni Somusa” (2013), “Blessings” (2016), “Edwaleni “(2017), “Sthandwa Sami” (2017), Greatest Hits (2017), and” Jesu Uyalalela” (2024). Her songs, known for their inspirational lyrics and soulful delivery, include Ziyamazi,” Umelusi”,” You Are Alpha, Uyalalela” 

Mhlaba has collaborated with Universal Music (Pty) Ltd., EMI South Africa, CCA, and her own label, Mhlaba Music and Entertainment CC. Her artistry and spiritual message have earned her multiple awards and recognition, securing her place as one of South Africa’s most influential gospel musicians. 

Through her music, Hlengiwe Mhlaba continues to uplift audiences, offering hope, faith, and resilience to listeners across generations.