Kwa-Thema – Actor and musician MacDonald Mathunjwa was remembered for his resilience and passion for the arts during his memorial service held at Kwa-Thema Community Hall on Saturday.
The 73-year-old died last Wednesday at Pholosong Hospital due to Covid-19 complications.
His daughter, Makwande Mathunjwa, explained her father was rushed to a local doctor on Saturday and was later admitted to hospital.
He was laid to rest at Vlakfontein Cemetery on Saturday.
Mathunjwa is known for his comedy roles on local sitcoms, which include Stokvel, uGugu no Andile and ‘Sgudi ‘Snaysi.
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During a memorial ceremony held at Kwa-Thema Community Hall, Bra Mac, as he was affectionately known, was remembered for being an epitome of resilience.
Chief whip of the ANC in Ekurhuleni Jongizizwe Dlabathi described him as a renowned actor with an electrifying energy who continued to nurture young talent across the country over the years.
Mathunjwa was born in the Eastern Cape on July 15, 1948.
He moved to Kwa-Thema in the late ’50s, searching for his older brother after his parents died.
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“As we celebrate Youth Month, we believe young people who aspire to reach the milestone reached by the South African veteran actor Bab’ Mathunjwa will emulate his dedication and passion to the industry and remain disciplined,” said Dlabathi.
His best friend and actor Simphiwe Ngwenya said Mathunjwa was an incredible director.
“Unfortunately some of his good work will never be made public due to the lack of funding.
“In the week before he got sick, while visiting him he had complained about a structure in his area that turned into a beer den and that he has been pleading with the local government to use it to train young people.
“He jokingly said he will one day die before realising this dream and today his fear has turned into reality.
“He wanted to use the arts to help fight drug abuse in the area,” he added.
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