The memorial service of veteran actress Nandi Nyembe at the iconic Market Theatre in Johannesburg on Thursday was nothing short of a national ovation for a woman whose voice, wisdom, and spirit carried generations.
While tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans who adored the Yizo Yizo and Zone 14 star, her family gave an emotional vote of thanks. They reminded South Africans that behind the celebrated actress was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and “the heartbeat of our family.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, one of her grandchildren said: “She was more than an actress. She was a narrator, the compass that guided us, and the light that carried us through life’s storms. To the world she was a star, but to us, she was our safe place, our history, and our hope.”
Clears the air on minister’s support
The family also moved to clear the air around recent social media chatter that Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie and his department had not supported them. They firmly corrected this, saying the minister had been present with them since Sunday morning when the news of Nyembe’s passing broke.
“We’ve been shocked to see posts online suggesting that the minister was not there for us. That is not true. He came to us, even on Sunday morning. And the department has been supporting us from the very beginning. We are not people who publicise what others do for us. But we want to make it clear we are grateful,” the family said.
Nyembe’s son, Bongo Nyembe, added his own touching tribute: “To South Africa, she was an icon. To the world, she was a storyteller. But to us, she was simply Ma, our home, our anchor, and our light. Her love carried us through life, and it is that same love that will continue to carry us forward.”
Tribute to the light of the family
The family expressed deep appreciation to the Market Theatre for hosting the memorial service. And they thanked South Africans across the country who have been sending prayers, messages, and support.
“Your love carried her, and it carries us now. She belonged not only to us but also to the nation. And for that we are humbled,” the family said, closing their vote of thanks.
The memorial service set the tone for Saturday’s funeral. The nation will once again gather to bid farewell to Mam’ Nandi, a storyteller, a symbol of resilience, and above all, the light of her family’s life.
