Renowned for his different talents in music, composition, choreography, and playwriting, Mbongeni Ngema has tragically passed away. His family confirmed the devastating news, revealing that Ngema was involved in a head-on collision. He was returning from a funeral in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, on Wednesday evening. Mbogeni Ngema’s demise has left a void in the world of entertainment and creativity. This marks a sorrowful end to a legacy cherished by many.
Mbongeni Ngema, a beloved figure known for his music and acclaimed plays like “Sarafina!” and “Woza Albert!”, has died at 68. He wrote hit songs too, like “Stimela sa se Zola.” Born in 1955 in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, Ngema began as a theater guitarist and became a household name through his artistry.
Early Life and Career of Mbongeni Ngema
Mbongeni Ngema, a prominent figure in South African theater, holds titles as a playwright, director, and composer. His work involves the narratives and struggles of black individuals in South Africa, particularly during apartheid.
In 1981, Ngema co-wrote “Woza Albert!” with Percy Mtwa. The play mixes serious topics with comedy and music, imagining Jesus Christ’s imprisonment in South Africa by the government, performed internationally.
Ngema gained global recognition with “Asinamali!” (1983) and “Sarafina!” (1987). “Asinamali!” involves police violence and racist laws. On the other hand, “Sarafina!” depicts the anti-apartheid struggle, later made into a 1992 movie. “Township Fever” (1990) focuses on a strike among South African railway workers.
In 1995, Ngema shifted from political themes to create “Mama! The Musical of Freedom,” exploring the lives of gang members in Soweto, marking a departure from his usual political narratives.
Besides playwriting, Ngema composed many songs. His 1994 song “African Solution,” created for the National Peace Committee, supported victims of violence. He also contributed to the music arrangement for “The Lion King” film.
Sarafina Musical
Mbongeni Ngema’s musical adapted the hit movie “Sarafina!” from 1992, and created in 1987. Co-written by Ngema himself, the film starred Hollywood actress Whoopi Goldberg alongside Leleti Khumalo.
Ngema’s family expressed deep devastation over his passing and mentioned plans to share funeral details soon.
In 2018, Ngema found joy in the knowledge that his work would endure beyond his lifetime. His legacy extends to nurturing numerous South African actors, many of whom have become well-known figures in the industry.
In an interview with TshisaLIVE, Ngema highlighted the importance of the younger generation learning from experienced veterans. He shared his frustration at the lack of eagerness among young artists to absorb knowledge from those who’ve long been part of the industry. He asserted this by reminiscing about his desire to learn from Gibson Kente. Ngema emphasized the need for artists to aspire to learning. According to him, he felt that enthusiasm was lacking among the present generation.