Gospel Legend Lusanda Mcinga Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award Amid Health Battle

South African gospel singer Lusanda Mcinga, a treasured voice in the gospel community for over 30 years, has inspired fans by attending the Crown Gospel Music Awards despite her serious health challenges. The 61-year-old singer, from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, has spent decades touching hearts with her music, drawing people closer to faith, and offering comfort through her timeless songs, including the iconic “Kanye Nawe Nkosi Yami.”

Lusanda is scheduled for a critical spinal surgery this week in Durban, following three years of limited mobility. She has been unable to walk without assistance, and doctors have confirmed that the operation is necessary to restore her movement. Ahead of the procedure, she was admitted to a Durban hospital but was granted special permission to leave briefly and attend the awards ceremony.

On 23 November, Lusanda arrived at the Durban ICC in a wheelchair, supported by her son, fellow gospel artist Betusile Mcinga, and family members. At the event, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition of her decades-long contribution to gospel music in South Africa.

In her acceptance speech, Lusanda expressed gratitude and requested prayers from the nation. “I’m here today because I asked for a pass-out from the hospital. I’m about to undergo a spinal surgery. I only ask for prayers,” she said. She reflected on her career, stating, “In my 30 years in the music industry, I sang for God and turned people to Him through my voice. Even today, people are still coming to God because of my music. Now, I’m asking God to grant me more years, because of the work I’ve done for Him.”

She also encouraged Betusile to continue her legacy in gospel music. “This journey of gospel music is not easy, but doable,” she said, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance in the industry.

Betusile told Daily Sun that the family remains hopeful about Lusanda’s recovery. “My mum is admitted to one of the hospitals in Durban, and we hope that after the operation she’ll be able to walk again. For now, the doctors are still running check-ups. They’ve confirmed her spinal surgery will be done this week,” he said.

The gospel community has rallied around Lusanda, sharing prayers and support under hashtags like #PrayerRequest, #GospelFamily, and #GospelLegend, celebrating not only her achievements but also her enduring faith and resilience in the face of health challenges.