Love, Loss & Moving On: AKA’s Late Girlfriend Steps Out With New Man On Valentine’s Day 2026

✍️ By Teju/ February 16, 2026/ 2:34pm

Fans have been buzzing after photos surfaced of late South African music star Kiernan “AKA” Forbes’s former girlfriend stepping out with a new man on Valentine’s Day. Some social media users criticized the move, while others reminded critics that life goes on after loss. One popular reply noted: “AKA lost his then‑fiancée in 2021 and started moving with this lady right here in 2022. AKA died in 2023 and this is 2026. Let her enjoy. It’s normal for everyone to move on.”

AKA, born January 28, 1988, in Cape Town, was one of South Africa’s biggest rappers and hip-hop stars. His career spanned nearly two decades, producing hit albums like Altar Ego and Touch My Blood, and earning him acclaim as a major influence on South African music.

Tragedy struck AKA’s personal life in 2021 when his fiancée, Anele “Nelli” Tembe, died after falling from the 10th floor of a Cape Town hotel. Authorities investigated but no charges were brought. The rapper later shared publicly how deeply the loss affected him.

Following Nelli’s death, AKA began a relationship with fellow rapper Nadia Nakai, and the couple became one of South Africa’s most talked-about celebrity pairs. Their time together highlighted a vulnerable and loving side of AKA, even after heartbreak.

On February 10, 2023, AKA was shot and killed outside a restaurant in Durban, along with his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane. The nation mourned the loss of the rapper, who left a lasting imprint on South African music and culture.

In 2026, seeing AKA’s former partner move on has sparked online discussion. While some were critical, many emphasized that after grief, people deserve happiness and the freedom to live their lives. The conversation underscores a simple truth: life moves forward, even after tragedy.