South African music writer, known for the musical “Sarafina,” depicting student riots in apartheid-era Soweto, Mbongeni Ngema, has tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of 68, as confirmed by his family.
Ngema’s death coincides with the resurgence of the 1992 movie, created in collaboration with the iconic jazz musician Hugh Masekela, which was set to be screened at this year’s Cannes Film Festival classic section and released for streaming.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, father, husband and a patriot, Mbongeni Ngema,” the family said in a statement.
“Ngema was killed in a head-on car accident whilst returning from attending a funeral” in Eastern Cape province, the statement added. He was a passenger in the vehicle.
“Sarafina” made Ngema a pan-African music star. A stage version had earlier played on New York’s Broadway for two years. It was nominated for Tony and Grammy awards.
His artistic endeavors were hailed for capturing the essence of resistance amid the apartheid and liberation struggle, as stated by his family.
Ngema was a multifaceted artist, excelling as an actor, choreographer, composer, and singer.
Among his notable creations was the hit song “Stimela sa se Zola,” a collaborative piece with Masekela.
In 2020, one of Ngema’s former spouses made allegations of sexual abuse against him in a published book.
