Mam’Nandi Nyembe’s memorial and funeral arrangements announced

JOHANNESBURG — 27 August 2025

South Africa will honour late acting legend Nandi “Mam’Nandi” Nyembe with memorial and funeral services this week. The beloved actress passed away on 23 August 2025 at age 75 after a celebrated 50-year career.

Her family and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture jointly confirmed her death. Minister Gayton McKenzie joined the family in mourning what they called “one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe.”

A memorial service will be held at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre on Thursday, 28 August at 11:00. The venue honours Nyembe’s deep connection to South African performing arts.

Her funeral follows on Saturday, 30 August, though the exact venue hasn’t been confirmed (family statement).

Nyembe’s grandson Njabulo told Daily Sun the family is coping with their loss day by day, maintaining: “The family is taking it day by day. We’re spending as much time together as possible even though it comes with many ups and downs. But through everything, we remain level-headed to make sure we complete the process.”

He confirmed ongoing coordination with government officials regarding arrangements, stating: “As you saw in the statement we released with the department, we are in contact with them about everything and working together behind the scenes.”

Tributes from fans, fellow actors, and cultural leaders continue to honor the star’s lasting industry impact.