Sithole's prowess as a musician did not translate into financial success and by the late 1990s he was penniless, busking on the streets of Cape Town. A stint as musician-in-residence at the District Six Museum in Cape Town followed, ending as his health (compromised by heavy smoking) rapidly declined.
Sithole's exceptional musical skills did not guarantee financial success, and by the late 1990s he was without resources, performing on the streets of Cape Town. He later held a position at the District Six Museum in Cape Town, which ultimately led to his health declining due to heavy smoking.