The Nyembe family, together with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, confirmed her passing in a joint statement on Sunday. Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed the nation’s grief, describing Mam’ Nandi as “the very soul of South African storytelling.”
A Career Spanning Over Five Decades
With a career spanning more than 53 years, Nyembe brought to life some of the most unforgettable characters in South African film and television. She was best known for her roles as:
- Nandi Sibiya in the soccer drama Zone 14
- Sister Lizzie in the SABC1 series Soul City
- Lily in the groundbreaking drama Yizo Yizo (2001–2004)
- Lead in the sitcom Izoso Connexion (2006–2007)
Her versatility extended to film, where she played notable roles such as Sangoma Rachel Ndlovu in A Reasonable Man (1999), Miriam in Saturday Night at the Palace (1987), and a sangoma in Yesterday (2004).
In later years, she captivated audiences as Dolly on Isithembiso, MaZwide on House of Zwide, and Gog’Mkhithi on Isibaya.
Personal Struggles and Resilience
Despite her celebrated career, Nyembe faced personal challenges. She revealed in past interviews that her financial struggles worsened after spending approximately R88,000 of her savings on her son’s medical treatment. Her declining health left her wheelchair-bound in recent years, but she remained passionate about acting, determined to keep telling stories.
A National Loss
In their tribute, the Nyembe family said:
“To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time.”
Minister McKenzie added:
“You shared a legend with us. Her loss is not yours alone but a loss we all feel. South Africa bows its head in sorrow but also lifts its eyes in honour of the life she lived so powerfully.”
Remembering a Legacy
Nandi Nyembe was more than an actress — she was a cultural icon, mentor, and mother figure to generations of South Africans. Through her artistry, she reflected the struggles, joys, and resilience of the nation, leaving behind an indelible legacy.
South Africa will forever remember her as a pioneer of the arts, a storyteller who gave voice to the voiceless, and a woman who embodied dignity and strength on and off screen.
May Mam’ Nandi rest in eternal peace.
