South African radio star Sizwe Dhlomo has confirmed that he will be exiting Kaya 959, bringing an end to a chapter that has defined his sound on the breakfast airwaves.
In an emotional live moment on Wednesday morning, 27 May 2026, Dhlomo broke the news directly to listeners, leaving many viewers and fans reeling in real time.
Quick facts
- Sizwe Dhlomo has announced he is leaving Kaya 959.
- He shared the update live on air on Wednesday morning, 27 May 2026.
- Dhlomo says he plans to exit the station at the end of June.
- He will take a sabbatical after years presenting behind the microphone.
- He says he may return to radio someday, but not to Kaya 959.
- Dhlomo revealed he first decided to resign in 2025.
- He urged co-hosts and colleagues to back the person who takes over his breakfast show role.
Speaking about the timing, the veteran broadcaster said he will make his departure at the end of June as he steps into a sabbatical period. He described the decision as difficult, but insisted that he had already settled on what he wanted for his next move well before he addressed the public.
Dhlomo also clarified that while a return to radio is not off the table, Kaya 959 would not be the place he goes back to. The station, he indicated, will remain part of his past, not his future plan.
The presenter further explained that his resignation was already in motion earlier than fans might have expected. He disclosed that he first reached the decision in 2025 and has been preparing for the transition since then.
Breakfast show handover
During the broadcast, Dhlomo used his platform to encourage his co-hosts and colleagues to rally behind whoever eventually takes over his role on the breakfast show. His message was directed at keeping the team supported and the show’s momentum moving forward.
Since joining Kaya 959 in 2020, he has developed into one of the station’s most recognizable voices, with fans and industry observers praising his direct, outspoken style. Listeners have also credited him with delivering sharp interviews and consistently steering discussions across current affairs, entertainment, and social issues.
After the announcement, social media quickly filled with reactions from listeners, celebrities, and figures from the industry, many of whom said they were shocked to hear that he would be stepping away.
