Veteran playwright Mbongeni Ngema killed in accident
Sarafina producer Mbongeni Ngema was killed in a head-on accident near Mbizana on Wednesday evening. Here is the latest.
South Africa’s celebrated veteran theatre producer and musician, Mbongeni Ngema, was killed in a head-on accident near Mbizana on Wednesday evening.
BREAKING: VETERAN PLAYWRIGHT MBONGENI NGEMA KILLED IN ACCIDENT
Ngema is best known for his award-winning works, including Sarafina and Woza Albert, and hit songs such as Stimela sa se Zola.
According to reports, his family confirmed Ngema died in a statement on Wednesday evening.
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NGEMA WAS KILLED IN A HEAD-ON ACCIDENT WHILE RETURNING FROM A FUNERAL
The 68-year-old musician was killed in a head-on accident while returning from attending a funeral in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape.
“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,” – read the family’s statement.
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HE WROTE THE WELL-KNOW MUSICAL SARAFINA
Born in 1955 in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, Ngema started his career as a theatre backing guitarist. He wrote the musical Sarafina! and co-wrote Woza Albert!, both of which won numerous awards.
Meanwhile, the DA extended its heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Ngema.
🕊️ | The DA extends its heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of legendary playwright, director, and musician Mbongeni Ngema.
— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) December 27, 2023
His tragic passing was confirmed in a statement by his family.
The award-winning musical, Sarafina, is one of his many works we’ll forever embrace. 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/3SzzR3thBI
Minister of sports, arts and culture Zizi Kodwa also took to social media to express his shock.
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