Kabelo Mabalane, South African Kwaito star, celebrates 20 years of sobriety

Twenty years ago, one of South Africa's biggest musicians was facing one of his biggest battles - drug addiction. Kabelo Mabalane, also known as Bouga Luv, was a member of kwaito group TKZee at the time. 

The fast paced lifestyle of the entertainment industry almost caused him to lose everything, but the 'Dlala Mapantsula' hitmaker managed to overcome his demons. 

Kabelo celebrated a huge milestone in his sobriety journey on Thursday. He has been clean and sober for two decades. 

"Today 20 years ago, a ride like no other began. This journey has made me more realistic, I now believe in miracles. Thank you, Jesus," he wrote on Instagram. 

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The 45-year-old's wife, Gail Mabalane, also took to Instagram to congratulate her husband on his huge achievement. 

"#LOML 20 YEARS CLEAN AND SOBER TODAY.  @kabelomabalane you inspire me and so many others. We are so proud of you. 143 #LookAtGod," the actress and businesswoman wrote. 

Several stars also praised Kabelo for overcoming his addiction.

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"My brother, my brother, my brother…right now I have no words but just to say, the God that you serve is an AWESOME God. The truth of your path, your journey, sharing it openly. Pastoring our church and so many others across the nation, in an honest and authentic [way] makes you a LEGEND! Modimo o mohau," Basetsana Kumalo commented. 

Singer LeAnne Dlamini wrote: "God is so good! Congratulations Mr & Mrs M.

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Kabelo, who is now a pastor, revealed in an episode of Mac G's 'Podcast and Chill' that he spent R2-million on drugs. 

His addiction started with alcohol and marijuana. He then moved on to cocaine. The musician says he used about four or five grams a day. 

"So when you get home, go measure what a gram looks like and then times it by five. It messes you up financially," he said.

Kabelo, who has two children with his wife, is now a proud family man and is constantly creating awareness about drug addiction. 

"I did it you can do it too," he said in 2017. 

Do you or someone you know need guidance navigating alcoholism and seeking help? Click here for assistance in South Africa

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Main image courtesy of Instagram/@gail_mabalane