On Wednesday night, fans, friends, and colleagues in the industry praised the late writer Mbongeni Ngema on social media.
In addition to being a musician, composer, and choreographer, the 68-year-old perished in a head-on collision on Wednesday night while traveling back from a funeral in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape. The news was confirmed by a statement released by the family.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, father, husband and patriot, Mbongeni Ngema. He was a passenger in the vehicle.”
Tributes to Ngema flooded social media.
Sport, arts and culture minister Zizi Kodwa and celebrities Lebo M and Khaya Dladla were among those who shared tributes online.
“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Mbongeni Ngema, one of South Africa’s great playwrights, directors, lyricists and composers. Dr Ngema’s internationally acclaimed work, from Sarafina! to Stimela sase Zola, told distinctly South African stories and experiences,” Zizi Kodwa wrote.
“The legendary Bro Mbongeni Ngema has exited the stage. There are so many things I can write about how he influenced a lot of young theatre and dance groups emalokitshini in Bulawayo in the 90s. My favourite stage production from him was The Zulu. I watched It when it toured Europe while I was also on tour and I fell in love with the music, the harmonies, the dancing and the storytelling,” singer and songwriter Vusa Mkhaya wrote.
I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Mbongeni Ngema, one of South Africa’s great playwrights, directors, lyricists and composers. Dr Ngema’s internationally acclaimed work, from Sarafina to Stimela sase Zola, told distinctly South African stories and experiences. pic.twitter.com/adLrJj4mGa
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) December 27, 2023
RIP to the iconic Dr. Mbongeni Ngema: A trailblazer in the industry, whose works sit in history books. He has left an indelible mark in the world of the performing arts.
May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come. 🎭 #RIPMbongeniNgema pic.twitter.com/DJQ0qi0gCh
— Actor Spaces (@actorspaces) December 27, 2023
Rest in Peace Bab’ Mbongeni Ngema pic.twitter.com/jYcF5mZhTE
— Xoli Zondo (MBA) (@XoliswaZondo) December 27, 2023
The legendary Bro Mbongeni Ngema has exited the stage. There are so many things I can write about how he influenced a lot of young theater and dance groups emalokitshini in Bulawayo in the 90s.
My favorite stage production from him was THE ZULU. I watched It when it toured… pic.twitter.com/Z5Di3os6nO
— Vusa Mkhaya (@VusaMkhaya) December 27, 2023
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