EC-born broadcaster, property marketing guru Spitch Nzawumbi survives missile strikes in Dubai

Eastern Cape-born media personality and property marketing guru Siphiwo “Spitch” Nzawumbi was on Saturday among South Africans caught up in the crossfire amidmilitary conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, which saw the UAE — including Dubai, where he is based — bombarded with missiles. Dubai International Airport and the hotel were reportedly damaged during the attacks. South African media users flooded his timeline, praying for his safety.

While users offered to help and asked him to communicate with them, others advised him to consider coming back home. The department of international relations and cooperation (Dirco) said it is in communication with South Africans in the UAE and the broader Gulf region after the US and Israel launched missile strikes at Iran, which retaliated with missiles and drones aimed at some Middle East countries hosting US bases, which forced the temporary closure of UAE airspace. Nzawumbi, in 2024, told the Dispatch he is in Dubai, where he now works as head of marketing and partner relations for a multinational property group.