A memorial service for veteran actress Nandi Nyembe at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre turned confrontational when actress Lerato Mvelase delivered a powerful critique of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s empty promises to artists.
The event, intended to honor Nyembe’s 75-year life and celebrated five-decade career, took an unexpected turn when Mvelase took the podium following a speech delivered on behalf of Minister Gayton McKenzie. To loud applause from attendees, Mvelase declared that artists would no longer welcome the department at their celebrations until substantive policy changes occurred.
“How long must we hear the same speech? How long must we have the same engagements about the need for policy structures that are going to protect us as actors?” Mvelase asked, her voice trembling with emotion. “It is a lullaby, what you said right now.”
The actress highlighted the tragic case of Nyembe herself, who despite public promises of assistance from Minister McKenzie after her financial struggles were revealed in a viral video, never received the help before her passing.
Amid the confrontation, the memorial also featured heartfelt tributes to Nyembe’s legacy. Filmmaker Angus Gibson emotionally recalled her nurturing presence on sets like “Yizo Yizo” and “Zone 14,” describing how she mentored young actors and helped create positive working environments.
The event highlighted the ongoing tensions between South African artists and government institutions meant to support them, while also celebrating the life of a performer who dedicated her career to both her art and uplifting others in the industry.