South African rapper Nadia Nakai has opened up about life after the death of her late partner AKA, saying she is ready to move forward and possibly find love again.
Speaking during an appearance on L-Tido’s podcast, Nadia reflected on her journey through grief, healing, and rediscovering herself following the tragic loss of the rapper.
Addressing Dating Rumours
During the conversation, Nadia addressed speculation about her personal life, including rumours that she may be romantically involved with fellow South African artist Toss.
While she did not confirm a relationship, she admitted that she eventually hopes to have a life partner again.
“I eventually do want a life partner,” she said, adding that she hopes fans will accept the possibility of her loving someone new.
The Music Video That Sparked Conversation
Nadia also spoke about her appearance as a vixen in one of Toss’s music videos, explaining that it represented part of her healing process.
She revealed that the kiss featured in the video was intentional — a way to test how fans might react to her moving on publicly.
“I’ve mourned, I’ve healed, I’ve been respectful,” she said.
Reclaiming Her Identity
The rapper said participating in the video helped her reclaim a sense of freedom after feeling defined by her relationship with AKA.
“I gained my freedom under this cloud and stigma that I’m forever frozen in time as someone’s widow when I wasn’t married to him,” she explained.
Nadia added that people should remember she had her own identity before and after the relationship.
“You need to understand that Kiernan has been dead longer than I was with him when he was still alive. I’m still Nadia Nakai and I was always Nadia Nakai before and I will be Nadia Nakai after Kiernan.”
Message to AKA’s Fans
Acknowledging the loyalty of AKA’s fanbase, known as the Magacey, Nadia said she respects their feelings but also needs to prioritise her own wellbeing.
“I love the Magacey but I love myself too,” she said.
She added that she does not want to spend the rest of her life alone.
“I don’t want to spend the rest of my life loving a ghost. I love him. I will always love him. He will always have a special place in my heart but I’m ready to move on.”
Remembering AKA
Nadia and AKA began dating in 2021 and quickly became one of the most talked-about couples in South African hip hop.
Their relationship ended tragically on February 10, 2023, when AKA was shot and killed outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban.
The killing shocked South Africa’s music industry and left fans mourning one of the country’s most influential rap stars.
Now, more than two years later, Nadia says she is learning to honour the memories they shared while allowing herself the freedom to heal and embrace the next chapter of her life.
