Malome Vector, the popular South African rapper, whose real name is Bokang Moleli, has died in a car accident
Vector was reportedly traveling with musical collaborators Lizwi Wokuqala and Puleng Phoofolo when the tragic crash happened in the Free State on Wednesday evening
His former record label, Ambitiouz Entertainment, confirmed the news on Wednesday evening.
“With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of a shining beacon; the Lion of Lesotho’s sun has set. Our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones and industry peers during this time of profound loss,” the label stated.
The Free State Department of Health reported that three men were declared dead at the scene of an accident on the N1 near the Koppies turn-off close to Kroonstad.
Two other individuals, a man and a woman, were transported to Boitumelo Regional Hospital with injuries.
A source revealed to News24 that Malome Vector was traveling from Gauteng through the Free State to his home country of Lesotho to shoot a music video when the accident occurred around 13:00.
The vehicle he was in collided with a heavy motor vehicle.
Among the occupants were his musical collaborators Lizwi Wokuqala and Puleng Phoofolo.
Hillary Mophethe of the Free State Department of Transport indicated that a burst tire might have caused the driver to lose control, but the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.
A Meteoric Rise
Malome Vector’s journey in the music industry saw a significant boost when he moved to Johannesburg in 2020 and signed with Ambitiouz Entertainment.
The label discovered him through social media and facilitated a meeting in Lesotho, setting the stage for his rapid ascent.
Before gaining prominence in South Africa, Vector was well-known in Lesotho for hits like “Ichu” and “Motho Waka.”
His fame in Mzansi soared when he won a South African Music Award for Best Music Video of the Year in 2021 for a collaboration with Miss Pru and Blaq Diamond.
In 2022, he released his debut album, “Karabo,” featuring artists such as Blaq Diamond, Intaba Yase Dubai, Wave Rhyder, Sjava, Ubuntu Band, and Ntate Stunna. Speaking to City Press about the album, he said, “The album is about my story, my hustle, which includes my family, especially my daughter. It is based on my true story and my answered prayers.”
Earlier this year, Vector released a seven-track EP titled “1964,” featuring Ntate Stunna and Mlindo The Vocalist.