Picture: X/@LebogangMolema3
South African music star and kwaito pioneer Arthur Mafokate is mourning the death of his father, Enos Mafokate, who passed away at the age of 80.
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Arthur announced his father’s death on Thursday, 3 September 2026, sharing a statement from the Mafokate family. The family described Enos as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and mentor, while celebrating his extraordinary contribution to South African equestrian sport.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing and immensely proud of the extraordinary life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind,” the family said in the statement.
“His legacy lives on.”
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A pioneering life in equestrian sport
Enos leaves behind a remarkable legacy that extends far beyond being the father of one of South Africa’s most recognisable kwaito figures.
He was widely recognised as South Africa’s first Black showjumper and became a trailblazer in a sport that was historically dominated by white competitors during apartheid.
His achievements included international competitions, and he was involved with South Africa’s return to the Olympic stage at the 1992 Barcelona Games as a sports ambassador.
According to eNCA, affectionately known as ‘Kgosi ya Dipere’ or ‘King of Horses,’ Mafokate also dedicated much of his life to creating opportunities for young people. In 2007, he established an equestrian centre in Soweto, providing children from the township with opportunities to learn about horses, riding and competitive equestrian sport.
The centre went on to become an important training ground for young riders.
Arthur Mafokate remembers his father
For Arthur, however, Enos was more than a sporting pioneer.
In a personal tribute, Arthur reflected on the difference between the public figure South Africa knew and the father he knew at home.
“To the world, you were Kgosi ya Dipere — The King of Horses,” Arthur wrote, describing his father as a pioneer who broke barriers and opened doors for future generations. “To us, you were Dad.”
Arthur also expressed pride in being Enos’ son and in the life his father lived, the battles he fought and the legacy he leaves behind.
A legacy that will live on
News of Enos Mafokate’s passing has prompted tributes from members of the entertainment and sporting communities, with many remembering him for breaking barriers and creating opportunities for others.
While South Africa mourns the loss of a pioneering equestrian, the Mafokate family is left to celebrate a life that touched generations — both through his achievements in the saddle and through the opportunities he created for young people.
The family has indicated that memorial and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
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Featured image: X/@LebogangMolema3
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