Mzayifani Mzondeleli Boltina, professionally known as iFani, is a South African Hip-Hop/Rap artist, MC, and television presenter. His stage name, iFani, comes from the latter part of his middle name, Mzayifani. While he was called Mzi during his upbringing, he chose iFani as his stage name, signifying his connection with his fans.

Born in the Eastern Cape, iFani is known for his witty and humorous approach to rap, earning him the title of comedian of African rap. His debut single, Hola Hater, introduced him to the industry, followed by hits like Ewe, Shake, and Milli. These tracks were part of his album I Believes in Me (1st Quadrant), which achieved Gold certification from the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) on its release day, selling over 20,000 copies.

Beyond music, iFani ventured into television presenting. He debuted as the host of the battle reality competition series Stumbo Stomp Amapantsula and later hosted Clash of the Choirs on Mzansi Magic.

iFani’s musical influences include American artists such as Tupac, Wu-Tang Clan, and Notorious B.I.G. These inspirations shaped his distinctive style, setting him apart from the mainstream sounds of his time.

With a strong presence in both music and television, iFani continues to entertain audiences with his unique style, humor, and energetic performances, cementing his place in the South African entertainment industry.

Early Life and Educational Background

iFani, was born on November 20, 1985, in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa. He grew up in the Port Elizabeth areas of New Brighton and Motherwell.

For his education, iFani attended Chapman High School and Ethembeni Enrichment Centre before enrolling at the University of Cape Town. There, he earned a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science and a BSc in Computer Engineering. After completing his studies, he worked as a process control engineer at SABMiller.

While working at SABMiller, iFani explored music and became active in the hip-hop community. He participated in underground rap battles and cyphers, gaining recognition in the local scene. During this time, he adopted the stage name iFani, inspired by his grandfather’s name, Mzayifani. This name became central to his identity as he pursued a career in music.

Career

iFani, after graduating from Rhodes University, worked as a process control engineer at SABMiller. However, his passion for music led him to pursue a career in rap while still working. He adopted the stage name iFani, inspired by his grandfather’s name, Mzayifani.

His music career took off with singles like “Hola Hater,” “Ewe,” “Milli,” and “Shake.” He later released two albums, I Believes in Me (1st Quadrant) and I Believes in Me (2nd Quadrant). Meanwhile, he ventured into television, hosting SABC 1’s reality series Stumbo Stomp Amapantsula and later Clash of the Choirs on Mzansi Magic, replacing Busiswa Gqulu.

Initially, iFani faced skepticism about his rap skills, with many discouraging him. However, he persevered and gained recognition. In 2009, Hype Magazine listed him as number one on their Top Unsigned Hype List, Club 808 selected him as their first Boxfresh artist in 2011, and he won Best Freshman at the South African Hip Hop Awards in 2012.

Although his first single, Hola Hater, initially had a lukewarm reception, it gained traction after being picked up by Gauteng’s YFM and making it onto the Hot 9 chart. His follow-up single, Ewe, became a bold statement about the South African music industry, earning significant airplay and being named one of SABC1’s Best Music Videos of 2011.

In 2012, iFani signed with Sony Music Africa after releasing See Live. He continued his success with Shake, which debuted at number one on Club 808’s Chart in September 2012. His debut album, I Believes in Me (1st Quadrant), was released in 2013 and featured collaborations with artists like Blacksuga, Nomsa, and Bongani Fassie. His second album, I Believes in Me (2nd Quadrant), released on April 29, 2015, achieved Gold status on the same day.

In 2019, iFani collaborated with Limpopo rapper Papzito on Mokibelo and continued his journey with Sam Sufeketha (Round 2) in March. He later released Mlandeli Wam, a track expected to be featured in his upcoming album I Believes in Me (Third Quadrant).

Personal Life

iFani’s personal life has been shaped by complex family dynamics. Although both of his parents are alive, he was raised by his grandmother, with whom he shared a deep bond. Her passing had a profound impact on him, leading to depression and a break from both work and music, ultimately requiring hospitalization.

His relationship with his mother was distant, as she wasn’t involved in his upbringing. However, they reconnected briefly at his grandmother’s funeral, and despite their strained past, iFani chose to provide financial support to her. His father was also absent from his life, though they eventually met through an arranged meeting.

As a father, iFani has a 7-year-old son. However, there is uncertainty regarding another child, as he believes he may have fathered a second child, but the mother denies his paternity. 

Discography

2016 – Timeline

2019 – Mlandeli Wam

2019 – Sam Sufekethe

2020 – Amapiano,Pt.1

2020 – Vlone Avatar 

2023 – Intro

2023 – I Believes in Me (1st Quadrant) [Album]

2023 – Lidlozi

2023 – Stay

2024 – Durban Girl

2024 – Andibafuni Bonke

2024 – February

2024 – Ayadelela

2024 – Umama

2025 – Two feet

2025 – One Foot

2025 – iQuantum

2025 – Tyhini P

2025 – Money, Power and Respect