AKA’s Dating History
Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, widely recognized by his stage name AKA, was a prominent South African rapper whose personal life attracted significant public interest, particularly his romantic relationships. His dating history includes several high-profile relationships that garnered media attention.
Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa (Date Unspecified): According to Tony Forbes, AKA’s father, Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, a renowned South African actress, was Kiernan’s first girlfriend. Tony expressed his fondness for her, stating, “She was his first girlfriend… I love her. Talented, beautiful.”
DJ Zinhle (2012–2020): AKA began dating Ntombezinhle Jiyane, professionally known as DJ Zinhle, in 2012 after meeting in Botswana. Their relationship was marked by both highs and lows. In 2015, they welcomed their daughter, Kairo Owethu Forbes. However, the same year, the couple split following revelations of AKA’s alleged affair with television personality Bonang Matheba. Despite reconciling in late 2018, they parted ways again in 2020.
Bonang Matheba (2015–2017): AKA’s relationship with Bonang Matheba began under controversial circumstances, as it overlapped with his relationship with DJ Zinhle. The affair became public in 2015 when DJ Zinhle accused Bonang of being involved with AKA during her pregnancy. Despite initial denials, AKA and Bonang confirmed their relationship in 2016. The couple’s romance was highly publicized but ended in December 2017.
Nicole Nyaba (2018): In 2018, model and socialite Nicole Nyaba was linked to AKA. Nicole claimed that they were in love and living together during their brief relationship. She described AKA as romantic but later expressed regret over their involvement, stating that he “was just a waste of my life… he cost me a lot.”
Anele ‘Nelli’ Tembe (2020–2021): In 2020, AKA began dating Anele Tembe. Their relationship progressed quickly, leading to an engagement announcement in February 2021. Tragically, in April 2021, Anele passed away after falling from a hotel balcony in Cape Town. The circumstances surrounding her death led to widespread speculation and scrutiny of their relationship.
Nadia Nakai (2021–2023): Following a period of mourning, AKA entered a relationship with fellow rapper Nadia Nakai in late 2021. The couple appeared to share a deep bond, often sharing moments of their relationship publicly. They remained together until AKA’s untimely death in February 2023.
Throughout his life, AKA’s relationships were often in the spotlight, reflecting both the challenges and complexities of maintaining personal connections under public scrutiny.
