Durban – KwaZulu-Natal Member of Provincial Legislature Ncamisile Jerich Nkwanyana has passed away at 72.
Nkwanyana passed away at her home in Stanger in the evening on Friday, 12 June 2026, evening after a normal day of participating in legislative work.
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) said her passing has “come as a great shock to the Party and all who knew her, particularly as she had participated in the IFP National Council meeting on Monday”.
Nkwanyana was a longstanding member of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature, having served since 2012.
During her tenure, she served in various portfolio committees, most notably the Health Portfolio Committee, where she distinguished herself through diligent oversight, unwavering commitment, and an abiding concern for the welfare of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Following the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, she was elected Chairperson of the Legislature’s Public Participation and Petitions Committee.
A nurse by profession who served for many years at Stanger Hospital, Hon. Nkwanyana brought a wealth of practical experience and deep compassion to her legislative work, particularly in matters relating to healthcare.
Prior to her deployment to the Provincial Legislature, she served as an IFP ExCo Councillor in the iLembe District Municipality.
“Within the Party, she held numerous leadership positions, including serving as Provincial Chairperson of the IFP Women’s Brigade in KwaZulu-Natal. Until 2019, she also served as a member of the IFP National Executive Committee,” a statement from the IFP said.
“Hon. Nkwanyana was, above all, a servant of the people. She was hardworking, accessible, and deeply passionate about the advancement and empowerment of women.
“She possessed a quiet strength and a remarkable work ethic. Like a duck gliding serenely across the water, she often appeared calm and composed on the surface, while beneath it, she worked tirelessly and relentlessly in the service of others.”
Nkwanyana was also a devoted member of the Assemblies of God Church, a woman of deep faith and conviction, and a powerful prayer warrior whose spiritual strength touched many lives.
“Her passing is a significant loss to the Inkatha Freedom Party, the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, and the many communities she served with distinction over decades of public service,” the statement said.
Nkwanyana is survived by her daughters, Mrs Gugulethu Shange and Ms Zama Nkwanyana, as well as her beloved grandchildren.
Last night, IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa conveyed his personal condolences to the Nkwanyana and Fakazi families, describing Hon. Nkwanyana as:
“A loyal South African who served with humility and commitment,”said Hlabisa, who is also the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister.
“She represented the very best of the IFP, with integrity, compassion, and selfless service defining her leadership.
“We have lost a great leader, a dedicated public servant, and a steadfast advocate for women.”
The IFP extended its “heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies” to the Nkwanyana and Fakazi families, her friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by her service and friendship.
