Renowned musician, composer and playwright Mbongeni Ngema has passed away at the age of 68.

According to a statement by Ngema’s family, he was returning from a funeral in Lusikisiki when the vehicle he had been travelling was involved in a head on collision on Wednesday evening.“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband and patriot”, the family said.

The legendary director received international acclaim for his musical play Sarafina, which highlighted the struggles of black South African youth during Apartheid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another of his known works is the hit song Stimela sase Zola.

“An entertaining artist of note, Ngema’s works reflected the spirit of resisitance during the Westwood’s of apartheid and liberation struggle.”

“The Ngema family, colleagues and friends are deeply devastated about Ngema’s passing.”NGEMA’S AWARDS
According to talent agency Michael Moore Agency, Sarafina was nominated for 5 Tony Awards

The internationally recognised musical won 11 NAACP Image Awards and ran for two years on Broadway before being adapted into a feature film.

In 1989 Sarafina was nominated for a Grammy Award under the category Best Musical Cast Show Album.