Veteran Actress Nandi Nyembe Dies Without Receiving Promised Funds
South Africa is mourning the loss of legendary actress Nandi Nyembe, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 75. Known for her iconic roles in Yizo Yizo, Zone 14, and more recently in Showmax’s Adulting, Nyembe’s death has left the nation reflecting not only on her immense contribution to the arts but also on the challenges she faced in her final years.
A Legacy Marked by Struggles
Earlier this year, Nyembe’s financial difficulties came to light through a viral video in which she revealed her hardships. She disclosed that she had spent R88,000 of her savings on her son’s medical bills, which left her with very little to sustain herself. This revelation struck a chord with many South Africans who grew up watching her work, sparking an outpouring of support.
In response, a fundraising event was organised at Disoufeng, a popular eatery in Soweto, on April 28. Fans, colleagues, and well-wishers contributed to assist the beloved actress. Unfortunately, reports later confirmed that the event only managed to raise R6,000, and shockingly, Nyembe never received this money.
Promises That Never Materialised
Speaking to Sunday World, Nyembe’s daughter, Thami Nyembe, confirmed that her mother passed away without ever receiving the funds or the basic necessities that had been promised, such as a heater for the cold winter months. Thami explained that logistical delays and alleged poor organisation led to the money and items never reaching her mother.
“She never received the funds or the items before her passing,” Thami said, expressing her deep disappointment at the failed promises.
Adding to the heartbreak was the involvement of Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie, who had pledged R20,000 from his personal funds during a widely shared video call in April. McKenzie had also promised to visit Nyembe in Soweto within two weeks. However, the visit never took place. Instead, the minister only made his way to the Nyembe family home on Sunday—a day after the actress’s death.
A Reflection on the Neglect of Artists
Nyembe’s passing has reignited debates about the plight of veteran actors in South Africa. Despite their decades of service in shaping the country’s arts and culture, many find themselves forgotten, unsupported, and struggling financially in their later years.
For over four decades, Nyembe brought authenticity, humour, and resilience to the characters she portrayed, capturing the realities of township life and leaving behind a legacy celebrated by multiple generations. Her passing has raised urgent questions about the structural failures that leave icons like her to suffer in silence.
Remembering Nandi Nyembe
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, with fans and fellow actors calling for systemic changes to ensure that legends like Nyembe are not neglected. To many, she was not only a performer but also a cultural storyteller whose work mirrored the struggles and hopes of South African communities.
Though she died without receiving the support she was promised, Nyembe’s legacy as one of South Africa’s greatest actresses will endure. Her life is a reminder of the importance of valuing and supporting artists—not only when they are at the peak of their careers, but also when they need the nation’s care the most.