Lerato Mvelase Criticises Arts Department at Nandi Nyembe Memorial

JOHANNESBURG — 28 August 2025

Actress Lerato Mvelase criticised the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture during Nandi Nyembe’s memorial, saying the department has failed South African artists. The tribute was held at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre on Thursday.

Nyembe, a legendary actress who starred in productions like “Icala”, died on 23 August at age 75 after years of health and financial struggles.

Departmental deputy director Sibusiso Tsanyane attended the memorial, calling Nyembe “a symbol of hope, humility and resilience”. (TimesLive)

Mvelase directly addressed Tsanyane during her speech: “I know this is not a space where political issues should be addressed, but there is something I need to say… Mr. Sibusiso, I urge you to let the minister know that going forward, artists will no longer allow the department to come and celebrate with us.”

She continued: “It is not a fight with the department, it is a fight with the system which has been putting actors down for our whole lives.”

Mvelase demanded policy changes: “How long must we hear the same speeches? How long must we have the same engagements about the need for policy structures that are going to protect us as actors?”

She advised young performers: “I want to urge young aspiring actors to have a plan B. We are not a charity case. We must stop looking at ourselves as charity.”

Nyembe’s financial difficulties became public in April when she appeared in a viral video seeking help.