The South African entertainment industry is once again under the spotlight following the death of iconic actress Nandi Nyembe, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 75. Her death has reignited debate over structural failings in the sector, particularly regarding financial support for aging artists.
Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie, who also heads the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, found himself at the center of the controversy, with social media critics accusing him of inaction. In response, McKenzie posted a detailed defense of his efforts to assist Nyembe and her family.
Steps Taken to Support Nyembe’s Family
After Nyembe publicly appealed for financial assistance four months ago, McKenzie personally contributed R20 000 and promised to visit her once he returned from Cape Town.
“I visited the actress’s family after her children contacted me and helped them with taking the body from a government mortuary to a funeral parlour,” McKenzie wrote.
He further revealed that he provided R10 000 to cover cake and tea for visitors, made his driver and a funeral expert from his team available to assist the family, and confirmed that the department is covering the full cost of the funeral and securing venues.
“I now see some artists that were nowhere to be seen when help was needed are now everywhere where there are cameras lambasting me and telling lies,” McKenzie added.
Broader Commitments to Artists
McKenzie also highlighted the department’s ongoing work to support other industry members. Actor Glen Gabela, who publicly requested financial assistance, has received personal support from McKenzie, including R10 000 for groceries, as well as a team dispatched to paint, renovate, and supply furniture for his home.
He noted that additional initiatives are in the works, including funeral cover, hospital care, policy payouts, and engagement with TikTok for fair compensation, alongside amendments to the Copyright Amendment Bill aimed at protecting artists’ rights.
Industry Voices Speak Out
Despite McKenzie’s efforts, some in the entertainment sector voiced frustration at systemic neglect. At Nyembe’s memorial service, actress Lerato Mvelase, who helped coordinate the program, directed sharp criticism at the department’s deputy director, Sibusiso Tsanyane.
“I urge you to let the minister know that going forward, artists will no longer allow the department to come and celebrate with us. It is not a fight with the department; it is a fight with the system which has been putting actors down for our whole lives,” Mvelase said.
Social media reactions mirrored this sentiment, with users praising Nyembe’s legacy while expressing frustration with governmental structures that fail to protect artists adequately.
A System Under Pressure
Nyembe’s passing, coupled with public pleas from other industry figures, underscores a deeper issue within South Africa’s entertainment sector: financial instability, limited social support, and insufficient recognition for aging talent. While McKenzie’s personal interventions have been substantial, the controversy highlights a growing demand for systemic reform to safeguard artists and ensure they can live with dignity.
As debates continue, the legacy of Nandi Nyembe serves as a sobering reminder of both the vibrancy of South Africa’s artistic community and the pressing need for comprehensive structural support.
{Source: IOL}
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