Yvonne Chaka Chaka recently celebrated 36 years of marriage to her husband, Dr Mandlalele Mhinga.
Sharing a series of photos from their early days, she reflected on their journey with gratitude and love, writing: “36 years ago on this day, we said YES, we do. Thank you for being a good friend and father to our children. Siguga Sonke (We’re growing old together). God is good. And he is our Rock.”
Their story spans decades of partnership, music, family and faith.
Chaka Chaka, born Yvonne Machaka in Soweto, is a renowned South African singer, songwriter, and humanitarian. She gained prominence in the 1980s with hits like “I’m Burning Up”, “Sangoma” and “Thank You Mr DJ”
Her music has earned her accolades and recognition both locally and internationally.
Mhinga, affectionately known as “Tiny”, is a medical doctor and entrepreneur.
Their journey as a couple began in 1989, and despite initial scepticism from some quarters about their differing professions, her in music and him in medicine, their bond has proven resilient.
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The icon has also been open about her commitment to monogamy.
She has publicly stated that she would not enter a marriage involving polygamy and, in 2012, warned that she would not accept a second wife.
Speaking at the UN headquarters alongside Puerto Rican singer Ricky Martin and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to advocate for gay rights, she clarified: “My husband is allowed to have three or four wives, but I would not let him. If he wants to marry someone else, let him go. He can do that.”
Over the years, Chaka Chaka has released numerous albums, contributing significantly to the South African music scene.
Beyond her musical achievements, she is a committed humanitarian. She has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the Roll Back Malaria Partnership and as the United Nations MDG Envoy for Africa.
Her dedication to social causes is further exemplified through her foundation, the Princess of Africa Foundation, which focuses on health and education initiatives across the continent.
