The late playwright and director Mbongeni Ngema has been described as a veteran of the liberation struggle and mentor to many artists in the country.
These are some of the sentiments that were echoed during Ngema’s Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2 in Durban.
Ngema, who was 68 years old, was killed in a car crash two weeks ago on his way to KwaZulu-Natal after attending a funeral in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape.
Ngema’s send-off was attended by family members, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, fellow artists and thousands of mourners.
Ngema’s brother, Nhlanhla, says he was a strength of the family.
“He was a guiding light, source of strength and a beacon of love.
“His presence brought joy to our lives and his absence leaves an irreplaceable void.
“His passion for live was infectious, he approached every challenge with unwavering determination, inspiring all of us to strive for the best, whether through his artistry, kindness, or his unwavering support.
“Mbongeni touched the hearts of many,” said Nhlanhla.
Ngema’s widow Nompumelelo Gumede-Ngema, said she’s still in disbelieve that he’s no more, and still pondering how she’s going to spend the remainder of her life.
Her brother, Vusimuzi Gumede, read a letter penned to her late husband to the mourners.
“I’m at pains, in accepting the finality that this day presents.
“It is hard for me to accept the reality, that I would not see you come through that door anymore.
“I keep thinking it’s a dream that I will awaken from, or perhaps someone playing a joke on me.
“But then again, the days that have passed following your unexpected passing, serve as confirmation that this is indeed not a dream, you truly have found your peace Madlokovu Wami,” said Gumede.
Kodwa described Ngema as a veteran of the liberation struggle and acknowledged his role in the arts.
He again stressed that more still needs to be done to celebrate artists when their still alive.
“There is a need to establish a system or programme of Recognition and Acknowledgement as part of our vision.
“I will once again repeat what I always say, we need to give them flowers whilst they can still smell them.
“Notwithstanding the fiscus challenges we face as a country, we can also achieve same through amongst others crowdfunding by mobilising private sector who in 30 years of democracy have not made any significant contribution to the arts,” lamented Kodwa.
Ngema was laid to rest at the Heroes Acre in Chesterville, Durban.
