South African actress Manaka Ranaka has bared her soul to fans, speaking candidly about the heartbreak she still carries seven months after losing her eldest daughter, Katlego Ranaka.
The Generations: The Legacy star took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a raw video and message, admitting that life has been a struggle since Katlego passed away in January 2025 at the age of 24.
“Most times it’s hard to get up and face the world”. In her post, Manaka said mornings are the hardest part of her day.
“I wish I could say it’s getting easier, but I can’t, not yet. My mornings are the toughest. Most times it’s hard to get up and face the world,” she wrote.
The actress, who plays Lucy Diale on SABC1, said she finds the strength to rise for her other children Lele, Seni and Mpho.
“But for Lele, Seni and Mpho, I kick those blankets! I make sure I get up for them and for myself. Rest easy, my big girl,” she added.
She ended the caption with “Umtanami ulele” “my child is resting in peace.”
Fans Rally Behind The Actress
The emotional post drew thousands of comments within hours. Fans, colleagues, and fellow South Africans flooded her page with messages of love and support.
“I know your pain, Sisi. I pray that God will renew your strength daily. You’re in my prayers,” one follower wrote.
“It doesn’t get better, but you learn to live with the pain. I’m so sorry, my sister,” said another.
Many shared their own experiences with loss, urging Manaka to lean on her faith, family and the support of those who love her.
Remembering Katlego
Katlego’s death in January 2025 came as a shock. The family has kept details around her passing private, but Manaka has continued to honour her daughter publicly, often sharing photos and tributes and calling her “my big girl” who brought light to the family.
The actress has also previously spoken about raising her children largely on her own, revealing that Katlego’s father, Sipho Lekaba, was not present in her life.
Choosing To Keep Going
Despite the overwhelming grief, Manaka said she is pushing forward for her children and to keep Katlego’s memory alive.
Her honesty has resonated with many, with fans praising her courage for speaking openly about a pain that so many parents face in silence.
“Though the road to healing is long,” one comment read, “your strength is giving other people strength too.”
As South Africans continue to stand with her, Manaka remains determined: to live, to heal slowly, and to honour the daughter she lost too soon.