Renown artist and play writer Mbogeni Ngema, known for writing the popular 1992 film Sarafina, is dead.
Ngema died on Wednesday evening at the age of 68 after being involved in an accident.
According to a South African media publication, the award winning artist met his death while on his way back from attending a funeral service in Mbizana in the Eastern Cape.
His family has since confirmed his death.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, father, husband, and patriot Mbongeni Ngema… Ngema was killed in a head-on car accident while returning from attending a funeral in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape this evening. He was a passenger in the vehicle,” the family said in a statement.
The family further revealed that he sustained severe injuries that led to his death.
His death comes just about a month after being feted at the 365 Men’s Award that was hosted by Gauteng Department of Social Development.
“Little did I know that I was going to be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. It is very humbling when your contribution to the South African liberation through the arts is recognised while you are still alive. Thank you so much to the organisers of the awards. These awards honour men who have displayed exemplary leadership and have made a positive impact in our communities,” Ngema said at the time.
