- Playwright Mbongeni Ngema's funeral is underway at the Durban ICC
- Ngema was granted a Special provincial official funeral category 2
- He died in a head-on collision on 27 December, at the age of 68.
Family, friends, and associates of Legendary playwright, theatre director, and musician Mbongeni Ngema are gathered at the Durban International Convention Centre for his final send-off.
The playwright was granted a special provincial official funeral category two. His eulogy will be delivered by the KZN premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.
The Sarafina! creator was killed in a head-on collision in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape while returning from a funeral.
Ngema, who was a passenger in the vehicle, died on Wednesday 27 December at the age of 68.
Mourners were gathered at the memorial service held on Wednesday at Durban's Playhouse Theatre,
Ngema's brother and family spokesperson, Nhlanhla Ngema, said he was filled with sadness and gratitude, in a tribute he penned which was read by the playwright's daughter, MaNgema.
"His creativity and talent as an artist were unparalleled, bringing joy and inspiration to countless hearts through his music, storytelling, and performances.
"His legacy will continue to resonate through the melodies of his songs and the powerful narratives he shared with the world.
"Though he is no longer with us in the physical sense, Mbongeni's love, wisdom, and passion live on in each one of us."
Ngema will be buried at the Chesterville Cemetary Heroes Acre, Durban.
WATCH THE FUNERAL HERE
The stream is courtesy of SABC