Phakamile Nokwe

Phaki and I were very close when he and I lived in Toronto Canada. We had a band called Diliza and played in many clubs there. When the time came to move back home I was unable to join him. He was a legend amonst the diaspora in Toronto. You will be sadly missed Phaki but know you will live on in my heart. Amandla!!

We send our deepest condolences to the Nokwe family for the loss of our dear brother Phakamile. Phaki touched many lives of our cadres when it matters and truly raised the flag of our glorious movement high, just like his parents and the entire family. Our greatest appreciation goes to the Nokwe family for a selfless contribution to our struggle. Phaki was part of this amazing revolutionary Nokwe family and in a unique way, he played his part. With his passing, we are reminded of the importance of culture and how music plays a significant role to humanity. Deepest condolences to the family. May Cde Phakamile’s soul rest in peace.

It is with profound sorrow that I honor the memory of Phakamile Nokwe. Having searched for him for many years, it is a tragic irony that we reconnect only now. Phaki left an indelible mark on the Toronto community, particularly after moving there from his Mechanical Engineering internship in Hamilton. Phaki's love for music was infectious. He possessed a unique depth of vision, exemplified when he formed the band 'Diliza.' Under his leadership, the group became the house band at the Cultural Centre 273 in Kensington Market. For Phaki, music was more than a passion; it was a diplomatic tool. He used culture to bridge political divides and unite us all. He is remembered with great admiration by many in this city who still speak his name. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, my brother.

Dear Nomvuyo, Zana, Nosizwe and Vikela It is with a heavy heart that I convey, on behalf of the Mfenyana family, our deep condolences to the extended Nokwe family, on the tragic untimely loss of your precious brother – Phakamile, (fondly known as Phaki). From his tender age to maturity, Phaki was the source of warmth, entertainment and inspiration, to his family, friends and comrades. As a child of political activists and product of the ANC, Phaki spent a significant part of his exile life attending various educational institutions abroad. Wherever he went, he quickly adapted to local conditions and easily made friends, often entertaining with his life stories and comical wit. As he travelled, Phaki experimented with his musical abilities, occasionally enriching his pocket as a street performer. Whilst he could hold his own, at any level of political or economic debate, Phaki often felt most comfortable living simply among those less fortunate. He will always be cherished for his humility and remembered as someone who truly embodied the spirit of the people. Our family shares in the sorrow of Phaki’s passing. We mourn with you, deeply feeling his absence and the sadness it brings to all who knew him. Our thoughts are with the extended Nokwe family and friends, during this challenging time as we honor the kindness, humility, and happiness that Phaki shared with everyone around him.

Phaki Mr Nokwe, Companero nokwe, Tavarisch you maybe gone but i will not forget you my friends. The stories and laughter we shared, the advise on making soil fertiliser and the little time I have spent with you and family will forever in my mind. You were such a caring person with the greatest sense of humor, I honor you and may you find eternal peace in the spritual realm. Your companero Bongane Ntuli.

Phaki, we will surely miss you my brother. You have run your race and it is time for you to rest in eternal peace.