The Star

‘X-Repo’ host Xolani Maphanga saved from drowning after breaking leg in pool fall

Nomathamsanqa Sithathu|Published

Xolani Maphanga says he’s grateful to the neighbour who pulled him from danger after a pool accident left him unable to swim.

Image: Instagram

“X-Repo” presenter Xolani Maphanga is reportedly recovering in hospital after a scary pool accident at his home that nearly cost him his life. 

The TV host told “TimesLive” that he was doing chores on Saturday morning when he slipped and fell into his swimming pool. The fall broke his left leg, leaving him unable to swim himself to safety.

He said he tried to pull himself out but the pain made it impossible. He then started calling for help, hoping someone would hear him. 

His neighbour eventually heard the shouting, rushed over and found him struggling in the water. The neighbour immediately called emergency services and the presenter was taken to hospital.

“I was at home alone. I tried to swim but it was hard because my leg was broken. I’m grateful to my neighbour because if it wasn’t for him, I’d be dead. I could’ve drowned. He rescued me,” Maphanga said.

He underwent surgery on Sunday and is expected to have another procedure to insert steel into his injured foot. 

Doctors have advised that his recovery will take several weeks, which means filming for “X-Repo” has been paused for now.

He further revealed that he is eager to get back to work, even if it means showing up on crutches, because helping people brings him peace.

He also reflected on the accident, saying he doesn’t understand why it happened at home rather than while filming but he believes “the Lord works in mysterious ways.”

Known for his famous tagline “Ngiyi fish emanzini”, which translates to “I’m a fish in the water”, fans poked fun at the irony but have also wished him well and hope for a speedy recovery.