Veteran South African actress Nandi Nyembe, beloved for her iconic roles in Zone 14, Yizo Yizo and Adulting, continues to face delays in receiving money raised at a fundraising event held in her honour two months ago.
The event, which took place on April 28, at Disoufeng, a popular eatery in Soweto, was intended to provide financial support for the legendary actress. However, concerns have emerged over the slow distribution of these funds, leaving Nyembe and her supporters in the dark.
Funds raised at event
The fundraising event, which was met with mixed emotions by Nyembe herself, was organised to provide financial relief for the actress, who has faced cash flow challenges over the past couple of months.
In April, Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie gave the veteran actress R20 000. The gesture was after a video that went viral in which Nyembe broke down, leaving the country in shock.
Nyembe was begging for help because she had spent all of her savings on her son. She said her son needed R88, 000 for medical expenses.
Nyembe disclosed her hardships, financial difficulties, deteriorating health. She also exposed an industry that has left her without a safety net after a lifetime of giving. The 74-year-old veteran actress asked for donations in the video clip.
This resulted in Good Samaritans organising a fundraising party for her.
Still waiting for raised funds
However, two months later, the funds remain undistributed, raising concerns among organisers and attendees.
Nyembe told Sunday World this week that she still has not received the funds that the organisers of the event had raised for her.
“It is disheartening that the money raised to help me has not reached me yet. It is winter, and I am in need of a heater and the basics to get me going. I had no idea that the Gauteng Film Commission is the one who needs to give the go-ahead with regards to me getting the money,” said Nyembe.
Adding to the disappointment, McKenzie has yet to fulfil a personal promise to visit Nyembe. This is despite publicly committing to do so in April 2025. McKenzie pledged to check on her in Soweto but has not followed through, according to Nyembe.
In an earlier interview with the publication, Nyembe expressed her disappointment. She said that she had not heard from McKenzie since his promise was made.
Minister McKenzie visit yet to happen
“I was hopeful when he said he would come, but nothing has happened,” she said. The unfulfilled commitment has sparked criticism, with some fans and commentators questioning the minister’s sincerity.
The Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) has been tasked with making the final decision on how the funds will be allocated. Sources indicate that the GFC is reviewing the matter to ensure the money is used solely for Nyembe’s benefit. But no clear timeline for the distribution has been provided.
This delay has only deepened the frustration felt by Nyembe and her supporters, who are calling for swift distribution of the funds.
Nyembe, a stalwart of South African television and theatre, has touched the hearts of many with her powerful performances over the decades. Her plight has sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of veteran artists in the country. Many are questioning why promises made to such icons are not being honoured.
As the wait for the funds continues, Nyembe remains gracious but hopeful.
Film commission mum on issue
“I appreciate everyone who has supported me,” she said. “I just hope the process can move faster so that the help can reach me soon.”
Sunday World reached out to the Gauteng Film Commission for comment on the status of the funds. However, despite them committing to respond by midday on Wednesday, they had not done so by the time of publication.
Their comment will be added to the story should they respond.
