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.
A renowned musician, Sithole struggled to achieve financial stability, and by the late 1990s he was without resources, performing on the streets of Cape Town. He later held a position as musician-in-residence at the District Six Museum in Cape Town, which ultimately led to his health declining precipitously due to heavy smoking.