Tributes continue to pour in for Nandi Nyembe

by Zintle Mdaka

South Africa’s entertainment industry has lost yet another giant.

Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who has been hailed as the very soul of South African storytelling, passed away on August 23 at the age of 75.

She was best known for her roles in Isibaya, Soul City, Zone 14, Yizo Yizo, Jacob’s Cross, Isithunzi, Adulting and the Oscar-nominated film Yesterday.

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and the Nyembe family confirmed her death on X (formerly Twitter) this past weekend.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe family, together with the National Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe,” read the statement.

“Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress; she was the very soul of South African storytelling. A teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation, she carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart.”

Her grandson, Jabulani Nyembe, spoke on behalf of the Nyembe family.

“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,”

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane also extended his condolences, describing Nyembe as a cultural giant.

“Mme Nandi’s career, spanning more than five decades, added richly to the cultural tapestry of the nation,” he said.

X users shared their tributes

 

Also see: Nandi Nyembe reveals that Gayton broke his promise to visit