The gospel and religious community is in mourning after the death of Reverend Dr Simon ‘SD’ Gumbi, affectionately known for his iconic phrase ‘U-Amen Usekhona’.
Gumbi, who has had a number of visits in the country preaching the gospel, died on Monday evening after a long illness at wearly 80 years old.
He rose to prominence in the 1990s with his popular and spirit-filled sermons on South Africa radio station Ukhozi FM’s Sunday night show Unkulunkulu Nomuntu Omusha, where he ministered to millions of listeners across South Africa and Eswatini.
His powerful voice, unwavering faith and ability to reach people’s hearts, earned him a loyal following both on air and in church circles. A number of church leaders in the country sent their condolences, describing Gumbi as a true giant of faith.
WHAT THEY SAID:
Conference of Churches
On behalf of the Eswatini Conference of Churches, we extend our profound and heartfelt condolences to the leadership, clergy and members of the Assemblies of God in Eswatini and South Africa on the passing of Reverend Dr. S.D. Gumbi. He was a devoted servant of God, a spiritual father to many and a steadfast pillar in the Body of Christ.
Dr Gumbi was a remarkable man of God whose influence extended far beyond the Assemblies of God. His faithfulness, wisdom, humility and unwavering dedication to advancing the Kingdom of God profoundly impacted countless lives, both within the church and in the broader community.
His legacy of prayer, discipleship, nation-building, and sacrificial love will continue to inspire generations.
While we mourn his departure, we take solace in knowing that he ran his race with integrity and has now received his eternal reward. His life will be remembered as that of a father figure, mentor, and unifying voice within the church.
We pray that the Lord grants comfort and strength to the Assemblies of God family, the Gumbi family, and all who were privileged to know and walk with him during this time of grief.
May we, as the Body of Christ, remain united in faith, carrying forward the mantle of righteousness and service that Gumbi so exemplarily upheld,” said Conference of Churches vice-president Pastor Hamilton Malaza.
Reverend Grace Masilela
“I can safely say a hero of faith has fallen and he was a powerful man of God. He preached the gospel without hesitation.”
Rev JV Mazibuko
“I send my condolences to his family and the entire Assemblies of God churches in South Africa and locally. It is painful but he was a real man of God and I am sure Heavens could not wait for such a man of God. “Ufele eNkhosini and we are also encouraged to continue to serve God ngekweciniso.’
Reverend Shodi Msibi
“A giant has fallen. He does not us anything but instead he was a good example and he died at the right time. He has done everything concerning the preaching of the Gospel. Personally, I have learnt a lot from him.”
Gospel legend Sipho Makhabane
“Reverend Dr SD Gumbi was more than just a colleague to me.
“I am still coming to terms with his passing and I am saddened by the news. I have lost a father, a brother and a mentor in the gospel fraternity. I will remember uBaba for his full contribution to the gospel industry, whether it’s in singing, preaching, or prayer. He always made an effort to make someone’s life better. My heartfelt condolences to his family.”
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