Tributes have been streaming in following the tragic death of South African playwright and theatre legend Mbongeni Ngema.
He was killed in an accident on Wednesday while returning from a funeral in Lusikisiki.
The Eastern Cape Transport Department said Ngema was in a vehicle with two occupants when it collided with a truck on the R61 in Bizana towards Magusheni.
"All three occupants from the sedan sustained severe injuries, and the male passenger unfortunately succumbed to his injuries and died on arrival at OR and Adelaide Tambo Memorial Hospital in Mbizana," said Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose.
The occupants of the truck escaped unharmed.
"The circumstances surrounding the cause of the crash are still unknown at this stage.
"A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Bizana Saps for further investigations," Binqose said.
Meanwhile, renowned movie producer Anant Singh, said he learned of Ngema's passing "with shock and profound sadness".
He said they met 36 years ago at the Market Theatre where SARAFINA had just started its run.
Singh said they had travelled the world, and I have fond memories of their trips to the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe as the show successfully toured.
"The most memorable is the world premiere of SARAFINA! at the Cannes Film Festival in 1992 where the film received a 20-minute standing ovation with him, Miriam Makeba, Leleti Khumalo, and the production team in attendance," he said.
I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Mbongeni Ngema, one of South Africa’s great playwrights, directors, lyricists and composers. Dr Ngema’s internationally acclaimed work, from Sarafina to Stimela sase Zola, told distinctly South African stories and experiences. pic.twitter.com/adLrJj4mGa
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) December 27, 2023
