Johannesburg – Much-loved veteran actress Mam’ Nandi Nyembe is no more.
“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe,” grandson Jabulani Nyembe announced on Saturday, 23 August 2025.
Best remembered for her roles as Nandi Sibiya in the television soccer drama Zone 14 and as Sister Lizzie in the SABC1 drama series Soul City, the acting icon, who had been battling health and financial challenges, passed away in a hospital at the age of 75.
“To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always,” lamented Jabulani.
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this time.”
The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, described Mam’ Nandi Nyembe as “South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts”.
The department said Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress; she was the very soul of South African storytelling.
“She was a teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation,” the department said.
“She carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart.
“Through her life and work, she gave our people pride and our stories, a purpose. Her journey broke barriers.”
Mam’ Nandi inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances, showing them that greatness isn’t defined by where you come from, but by how deeply you’re willing to give of yourself.
The department said Mam’ Nandi gave us everything.
“She was the voice that said: ‘You too can rise’.”
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary legacy.
“Her art is eternal, her voice may now be silent, but her spirit echoes in every heart she touched.
“She lives on in the laughter she brought us, the tears she moved in us, and the dreams she ignited in generations to come.”
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton 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.”
The minister said South Africa will never forget Mam’ Nandi Nyembe, a woman who carried, lifted, and shaped the soul of the nation through her art.
“May she rest in eternal peace,” he said.
