The Legacy of Nandi Nyembe: A Call to Action for South African Artists

Wed Oct 22 2025 23:41:50 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The passing of beloved South African actress Nandi Nyembe ignites discussions on the systemic challenges facing artists in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for reform in the creative sector.

Nandi Nyembe, known as the 'soul of South African storytelling,' passed away at 75, sparking widespread grief and anger in South Africa. Her harrowing final months spotlighted the lack of support for artists facing financial struggles. As her family and fans mourn, calls for urgent reform in the entertainment industry grow louder amidst the government's inadequate responses.

The death of a much-loved star is often met with an outpouring of grief, but in South Africa, the passing of actress Nandi Nyembe has also sparked anger over systemic issues affecting artists. Last week, the industry lost Nyembe, who was 75 and who spent her final months appealing for financial help in distressing conditions.

In a video, she spoke candidly from a wheelchair, pleading for support to cover basic living costs. This heart-wrenching plea starkly contrasted with her vibrant history as one of South Africa's most recognized actresses, beloved for her roles in television and theater.

Known affectionately as mam'Nandi, her death has resonated deeply within her community, feeling akin to losing a family member for many. Her legacy as a powerhouse of South African storytelling was honored in a tribute from her family and the government, who hailed her as a teacher, guide, and inspiration for generations of young actors.

However, the circumstances surrounding her death have reignited discussions about the precarious position of many South African artists. Without a structured support system in place, Nyembe's experience highlights the challenges faced by freelancers in the industry, particularly regarding financial security and access to benefits like pensions and health coverage.

The South African Guild of Actors has been vocal about these issues, revealing that post-initial performance fees, many actors do not receive royalties for subsequent broadcasts of their work. This systemic gap means that many actors inevitably face financial difficulties as they age.

Jack Devnarain, the Guild chairperson, expressed sadness over witnessing Nyembe's struggles and emphasized that charity alone cannot resolve the structural problems artist face. He reflected on her positivity and warmth during her career, recalling the inspiration she provided to budding performers.

Born in Kliptown, Soweto, in 1950, Nyembe began her career during the apartheid era, often confronted by racial barriers that dictated her casting. Yet, she took part in protest theater to challenge these limitations, ultimately breaking free of typecasting in her later career.

Despite her struggles, she made significant contributions to South African television and film, portraying complex characters that resonated with many, such as an HIV-positive nurse in 'Soul City' during a time of stigma surrounding the disease.

At a recent memorial service in Johannesburg, mourning her loss turned to anger as artists demanded reform in a system that had failed them. Calls for the implementation of bills promoting the right to earn royalties echo the grief and frustration felt by many in the community, who feel let down by government inaction.

As we remember Nandi Nyembe, we are called not only to honor her legacy but also to advocate for the rights and welfare of all artists in South Africa, ensuring that they are supported throughout their careers and can thrive beyond their performing years.