South Africa: The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has described Jabulani Mjay Zama as the epitome of tenacity and determination. Mjay, the founder of one of the most famous hangouts, Eyadini Lounge, located at V Section in Umlazi Township, passed away this weekend.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of a trailblazer and visionary, Jabulani Mjay Zama, whose establishment, Eyadini Lounge, transformed not only the fortunes of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, Hospitality and Entertainment sectors but transcended national boundaries,” said Premier Dube-Ncube.
The Premier added that international and national visitors, starved of African culture and keen to experience local ways of life, found it in abundance at Eyadini Lounge. The growth of township tourism in our province owes a lot to the likes of Mjay and Eyadini Lounge.
“Mjay contributed immensely to the growth of the township economy, and his business created employment for many people down the value chain and put food on the tables of many families who hail from Umlazi and surrounding areas. In addition to his business acumen and philanthropy, Mjay was passionate about giving back to his community. He was also a business mentor to up and coming young entrepreneurs,” stated the Premier.
Affectionately known as “Jigga Money”, Mjay started his career as a police officer and went into business. He built Eyadini Lounge from scratch in 2009, officially opening it in 2011 and quickly turned it into a popular spot for both locals and global tourists.
“With Mjay’s passing, we close a chapter in the life of a pioneering giant whose drive knew no obstacles but instead saw a chance to turn challenges into opportunities. He knew what it meant to start something, to be persistent and to live a legacy. Under his hand, Eyadini Lounge became a fashionable hangout that distinguished itself from the rest serving top African cuisine and providing world-class entertainment”, added Premier Dube-Ncube
“On behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, we pay our respects to Mjay and convey our deepest sympathies to the family, relatives and friends for losing such a creative soul. May your hearts heal from knowing that he ran his journey and contributed to the growth and development of KwaZulu-Natal in his own unique but lasting way. May His Soul Rest in Perfect Peace” concluded Premier Dube Ncube