Mankoko “Malesedi” Makitla Finally Steps Into the Spotlight with Her First Studio Album

After decades of singing at taxi ranks and shopping malls, 71-year-old Mankoko “Malesedi” Makitla is finally stepping into the national spotlight with the release of her first studio album. Her story is one of faith, resilience, and unwavering hope.

The former domestic worker from Ntwane-Dennilton in Mpumalanga has been singing since she was 27. For over four decades, she used her voice to inspire commuters, shoppers, and anyone willing to listen. Now, her long journey is paying off.

“God put me on this path and gave me the strength to keep going. Now my dream is coming true, and I can’t wait for people to hear my songs,” Malesedi told Daily Sun.

Her debut album, Modimo wa re utlwa (God Hears Us), features eight songs filled with messages of faith, gratitude, and perseverance. Each track reflects her life experiences, her belief in prayer, and her trust in divine timing.

Prayer is at the center of Malesedi’s creative process. “After I pray, inspiration comes, sometimes a melody, sometimes just lyrics. Since 1982, I’ve written over 1 000 songs,” she said.

Her journey to this point has not been easy. Malesedi lost one of her children, and her son James, now 52, has struggled with mental illness for years. Yet through every hardship, she remained steadfast. “Even with life’s challenges, I never felt sorry for myself. I prayed and believed that God would answer me, and He did. I am here because of Him,” she shared.

Malesedi also credits gospel singer Maggie Seemane for mentoring and encouraging her throughout the years. That support helped her keep her dream alive even when opportunities seemed far away.

Her breakthrough comes with another major milestone. Malesedi will perform at the Kasi Worship Concert at Moretele Park in Mamelodi on 30 November 2025. She will share the stage with top gospel acts including Ncane T, Rhoda, Keke, Abathandwa, and Puleng March.

The concert’s mission is to uplift communities through music and faith while addressing social issues such as poverty, drug abuse, and crime. It celebrates unity, resilience, and the power of collective worship.

For Malesedi, the moment marks a powerful testimony. “I want people to believe, have faith, and be patient. Even after 70, you can still achieve your dreams. Look at me, 71, with an album, finally performing on big stages,” she said.

She writes in both English and Setswana, blending heartfelt worship with relatable life lessons. Her message is simple but powerful: “Take care of your talent, and God will take care of you.”

Tickets for the Kasi Worship Concert are available at Webtickets. Fans can expect a performance filled with gratitude, inspiration, and a reminder that faith never expires.