From DJ Zinhle's Co-Parenting to Nadia Nakai's Last Love: Exploring AKA's Public Romantic Journey

Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, widely known as AKA, was a prominent figure in South African music, whose vibrant career was often paralleled by a highly public and dynamic romantic life. The celebrated rapper, known for his charismatic personality and chart-topping hits, navigated several high-profile relationships that frequently captured national attention, evolving from passionate beginnings to complex co-parenting arrangements and, tragically, abrupt endings. His love story, marked by both profound connections and public scrutiny, became an integral part of his public persona.

One of AKA's most significant and enduring relationships was with acclaimed DJ and businesswoman Ntombezinhle Jiyane, popularly known as DJ Zinhle. Their romance first became public around 2014, quickly becoming a beloved pairing in the South African entertainment scene. The couple welcomed their daughter, Kairo Owethu Forbes, in July 2015, a milestone that solidified their bond as parents.

However, their initial relationship faced challenges, leading to a public split in late 2015, shortly after Kairo's birth. Reports at the time suggested infidelity on AKA's part, specifically with media personality Bonang Matheba, which created significant media buzz and public debate. Despite the breakup, AKA and DJ Zinhle maintained a commitment to co-parenting Kairo, often sharing glimpses of their amicable arrangement on social media.

Following his separation from DJ Zinhle, AKA embarked on a highly publicized relationship with Bonang Matheba, a prominent television presenter and entrepreneur. Their romance, which became public in late 2015 and lasted until late 2017, was characterized by its high glamour and frequent appearances in tabloids and social media. Their relationship was often dramatic, with both public displays of affection and equally public spats, ultimately concluding in December 2017.

After his relationship with Bonang Matheba ended, AKA and DJ Zinhle rekindled their romance, confirming their reconciliation in late 2018 and early 2019. This second chapter was met with excitement by fans who admired their co-parenting dynamic and hoped for a lasting union. However, this reunion was also short-lived, with the couple announcing their final separation in December 2019 or early 2020, reiterating their focus on raising Kairo together.

In early 2020, AKA introduced his new girlfriend, Anele “Nelli” Tembe, to the public, marking a new phase in his romantic life. Their relationship quickly blossomed, culminating in AKA proposing to Tembe in February 2021, signaling intentions for marriage. The engagement was widely celebrated, and the couple often shared their affection on social media, appearing deeply in love.

Tragically, their relationship was cut short when Anele Tembe died in April 2021 after falling from a hotel building in Cape Town, an event that sent shockwaves across South Africa. Her untimely death sparked intense public speculation and grief, leaving AKA and her family devastated. The circumstances surrounding her passing remained a subject of public discussion and investigation.

In the wake of his profound loss, AKA found love again with fellow rapper Nadia Nakai, with their relationship becoming public in late 2021 and early 2022. Their romance was vibrant and openly shared with fans, as they frequently posted affectionate content on social media and made public appearances together. They were seen as a power couple in the South African hip-hop scene, supporting each other's careers and personal lives.

Their relationship continued to flourish, with Nadia Nakai often speaking about the deep connection they shared and the joy AKA brought into her life. This period represented a new chapter of happiness for AKA, who appeared to be in a stable and loving partnership. However, this relationship, too, met a tragic end when AKA was fatally shot in February 2023 in Durban, bringing his remarkable life and complex romantic journey to a devastating close.

AKA's romantic history was a significant part of his public narrative, showcasing his capacity for deep connection, navigating the complexities of fame, and enduring personal tragedies. From the enduring co-parenting bond with DJ Zinhle to the high-profile romance with Bonang Matheba, the profound loss of Anele Tembe, and his final loving relationship with Nadia Nakai, his love life was as dynamic and impactful as his music, leaving a lasting impression on his fans and the entertainment industry.