Ukhozi FM presenter, actress and enterpreneur, Zimiphi "Zim Dollar" Biyela has announced that she is stepping down from MCing gigs for maskandi festivals.
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Ukhozi FM presenter Zimiphi “Zim Dollar” Biyela has announced that she is stepping away from her role as a programme director and MC for maskandi festivals.
Biyela, who hosts the popular midday show Dankie 1223 with DJ Sphe Live from 12pm to 3pm, shared the news on her social media platforms on Friday morning. The seasoned broadcaster and educator by profession has long been a familiar and much-loved figure on the maskandi circuit, having hosted numerous festivals over the years.
It remains unclear whether she will take part in the upcoming Ingoma kaZwelonke festival, now in its fifth year, scheduled to take place in June at Moses Mabhida Stadium’s People’s Park.
Announcing her decision, Biyela wrote: “I greet you all in the name of the Lord. Amen. I would like to let all event organisers and music fans know that Zimdollar is withdrawing from MCing maskandi events.”
The maskandi loyalists-favourite presenter explained that age consideration has informed her decision, saying her knees can no longer support the physical demands of being active on stage.
“I want to thank all those who invited me to be part of their events and for working together,” she added.
Beyond broadcasting, Biyela is also an entrepreneur. She runs UKM Organics, a successful South African business specialising in herbal products, traditional remedies and organic fresh produce, with branches across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
Besides business, Biyela is an actress and has acted in various TV productions like Uzalo, eHostela, Durban Gen and Umkhokha: The Curse.
Attempts to reach Biyela throughout Friday morning were unsuccessful. It remains unclear whether her announcement was sincere or made tongue-in-cheek.
Fans on her social media page were divided on the news. While others welcomed the news as a positive development for her as a businesswoman to focus more on her business, others felt dejected and expressed that that will miss her energy on stage.