Mbongeni Ngema Cause of Death and Obituary, What Happened to Mbongeni Ngema? How did Mbongeni Ngema Passed Away?
by Kavitha
Updated Dec 28, 2023
Who was Mbongeni Ngema?
Mbongeni Ngema, born on May 10, 1955, in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was a versatile artist known for his roles as a writer, lyricist, composer, director, choreographer, and theatre producer. Notably recognized for his acclaimed works such as "Sarafina!" and "Woza Albert!," Ngema began his career as a theatre backing guitarist. Born near Durban, he played a pivotal role in portraying the spirit of black South Africans during the apartheid era through his plays.
Ngema's significant contributions extended to the global stage, with his multi-award-winning musical "Sarafina!" earning acclaim on Broadway and in a film adaptation. He was once married to actress Leleti Khumalo, known for her role in "Sarafina!" and South Africa's first Oscar-nominated film, "Yesterday." Mbongeni Ngema passed away on December 27, 2023, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of arts and culture.
Full Name
Mbongeni Ngema
Date of Birth
May 10, 1955
Place of Birth
Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Date of Death
December 27, 2023
Age at Death
68 years
Occupation
Playwright, Writer, Lyricist, Composer, Director, Producer, Actor
Language
English
Notable Works
"Sarafina!", "Woza Albert!"
Spouse
Leleti Khumalo (Married 1992–2005)
Net Worth
$5 Million (2023)
Mbongeni Ngema Cause of Death and Obituary
Renowned South African artist Mbongeni Ngema, celebrated for his influential work, including the acclaimed musical "Sarafina," met a tragic end at 68 in a car crash. The accident occurred as he returned from a funeral in the Eastern Cape province, with Ngema as a passenger in the vehicle. His family, conveying profound sorrow, described him as a beloved brother, father, husband, and patriot.
Ngema's artistic legacy encompasses the impactful "Sarafina," a musical co-developed with jazz legend Hugh Masekela, addressing apartheid-era student riots in Soweto. The Broadway success and subsequent 1992 film adaptation starred Leleti Khumalo and Whoopi Goldberg. At the time of Ngema's untimely demise, the film was gaining renewed attention, with a screening at the Cannes film festival and a streaming release.
Beyond his contributions as a writer, Ngema was a multifaceted artist—actor, choreographer, composer, and singer. His works, such as the 1981 play "Woza Albert," co-written with Percy Mtwa and Barney Simon, provided a satirical lens on the challenges faced by black individuals in apartheid South Africa, touring internationally.
Ngema's creative endeavors, reflecting the spirit of resistance during apartheid, leave an indelible mark on South Africa's cultural and historical landscape. His hit songs, including "Stimela sa se Zola," underscore his status as a pan-African music star. The timing of Ngema's passing, amid renewed interest in his iconic works, amplifies the impact of his legacy, making his loss deeply felt in the realms of arts and culture.
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Mbongeni Ngema Career
Mbongeni Ngema, born on May 10, 1955, in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was a renowned writer, composer, director, and actor known for his significant contributions to the world of arts. His most acclaimed work was the musical "Sarafina!", which earned five Tony Award nominations and 11 NAACP Image Awards. The musical enjoyed a successful two-year run on Broadway and was adapted into a feature film featuring Whoopi Goldberg, Leleti Khumalo, and Miriam Makeba.
Ngema's career included a series of successful productions, such as the internationally revered "Woza Albert," "Township Fever," "Mama," "Asinamali," "Maria Maria," "The Zulu – the musical," "1906 Bhambada The Freedom Fighter," "The House of Shaka," and "The Lion of the East."
In 1995, Ngema addressed the AIDS epidemic in South Africa with "Sarafina II," another impactful musical. He also ventured into education, becoming a visiting lecturer at the University of Zululand, teaching his unique artistic techniques. Ngema's influence reached New York's "Walk of Fame" in 1998, and his name was engraved at Durban City Hall in 2001 during the African Renaissance festival.
As a librettist, Ngema composed the musical soundtrack for the movie adaptation of "Sarafina" (1992), receiving a Grammy Award for his contribution. He also wrote and arranged songs, including the popular album "Stimela SaseZola." Ngema's artistic journey extended to the film industry, where he served as the artistic director for the 2003 Cricket World Cup.
Ngema's career showcased a fusion of traditional storytelling, drawing from his childhood in Zululand, and a commitment to addressing social issues, leaving an indelible mark on South African and global cultural landscapes.
What Happened to Mbongeni Ngema?
Renowned South African music legend Mbongeni Ngema, acclaimed for the musical "Sarafina," passed away at 68 in a car crash while returning from a funeral in Eastern Cape province. The family confirmed his sudden death, describing him as a beloved brother, father, husband, and patriot. Ngema's influential career spanned playwriting, acting, choreography, composing, and singing.
His notable work, including "Sarafina," made him a pan-African music star, with the 1992 film set for a return at the Cannes film festival. Ngema's contributions reflected the spirit of resistance during the apartheid era. The tragic loss marks the end of a prolific career, leaving a significant impact on South African arts and culture.
Mbongeni Ngema Net Worth
Mbongeni Ngema, the accomplished South African composer, writer, and lyricist, is considered one of the richest composers from the country. As of the last update on December 11, 2023, his estimated net worth is $5 million, according to various sources. Ngema, born on June 1, 1956, in South Africa, began his career as a theatre backing guitarist and went on to excel as a composer, director, and theatre producer.
His marriage to actress Leleti Khumalo, known for her role in "Sarafina!" and South Africa’s first Oscar-nominated movie, added to his prominence. Ngema's achievements, including induction into the New York "Walk of Fame" and recognition during the African Renaissance festival, contribute to his notable legacy and financial success.
How Did Mbongeni Ngema Passed Away?
Mbongeni Ngema, the South African music legend behind "Sarafina," passed away at 68 in a car crash. He was returning from a funeral in Eastern Cape province when the tragedy occurred. Ngema, a passenger in the vehicle, met a sudden end, marking a significant loss to the world of arts.
Mbongeni Ngema Cause of Death and Obituary - FAQ
Mbongeni Ngema, born on May 10, 1955, in Verulam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was a versatile artist known for his roles as a writer, lyricist, composer, director, choreographer, and theatre producer.
As of December 11, 2023, Mbongeni Ngema's estimated net worth was $5 million.
Mbongeni Ngema passed away at 68 in a head-on car accident while returning from a funeral in the Eastern Cape province.
Ngema was acclaimed for his works, including the multi-award-winning musical "Sarafina!" and "Woza Albert!"
Mbongeni Ngema had a prolific career that included roles as a playwright, composer, director, and actor. His impactful contributions reflected the spirit of resistance during the apartheid era in South Africa.