Month: April 2025

South Africa mourns the loss of legendary actor Don Mlangeni Nawa, who was laid to rest on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at a moving funeral service held at the Germiston Civic Centre in Johannesburg. The beloved star, well-known for his role on the iconic TV series Isidingo, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the age of 65.

In a heartfelt tribute during the funeral service, Don Mlangeni’s wife opened up about his private health struggles, revealing that he had been battling prostate cancer for some time. She described how he initially underwent chemotherapy, but unfortunately, the treatment did not succeed. A second round of chemotherapy was attempted; however, the disease became increasingly aggressive, forcing doctors to discontinue the treatment early.

 

 
“My husband gained weight, but it wasn’t real weight,” she shared. “The chemotherapy caused a buildup of water in his body, leading to frequent hospital visits. Eventually, he was sent home to spend his remaining days surrounded by family.”

Despite the grim prognosis, there was a glimmer of hope when they discovered a promising medical protocol from overseas. This treatment helped prolong Don Mlangeni’s life, giving his loved ones more precious time with him. However, the cost of care placed a heavy financial burden on the family. His wife explained that she had to stop working to care for him full-time and reached out for help.

Grateful for the support they received, she specifically thanked key government figures and supporters from the arts community. “I called on the Premier, who quickly responded by purchasing the first set of medication,” she said. “I also reached out to the Deputy Minister of Women, Children, and Persons with Disabilities, who helped us by buying the second batch of medication — though, sadly, Don passed away before he could complete the treatment.”

The family also acknowledged the unwavering support from ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who showed great compassion during their difficult time.

Throughout her speech, Don’s wife emphasized that while the battle was long and painful, they never felt truly alone thanks to the overwhelming kindness and generosity of friends, government officials, artists, and the wider public. Her moving tribute highlighted not just the personal pain of losing a beloved husband but also the community’s love and support in the face of suffering.

Don Mlangeni Nawa’s passing leaves a deep void in the South African entertainment industry. Celebrated for his remarkable performances and respected for his humility, his legacy will continue to inspire many.

As fans, friends, and family remember him, they also reflect on the strength and dignity with which he faced his final journey — a testament to the man behind the memorable characters he brought to life on screen.

A heavily pregnant Zimbabwean woman faced a humiliating and aggressive confrontation recently at Pretoria West’s Kalafong Hospital, where a group of South African women verbally attacked her and forced her to leave. The disturbing scene, captured on a viral video, highlights growing tensions over immigration and access to public healthcare in South Africa.

 
The women accused the Zimbabwean national of placing an unnecessary burden on South Africa’s strained public health system, claiming that Zimbabwe’s government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, does not contribute financially to South Africa’s services.

In the video, the unidentified woman is seen being ordered to turn off her phone and is subjected to a barrage of insults. “We are talking to you, switch off the phone! You always come to South Africa to make babies, why?” one woman shouted. Another accused her of exploiting free healthcare: “You come for blood tests for free in our country. You know we pay tax? Is Mnangagwa paying the South African government for your healthcare? Mnangagwa is not paying us anything.”

The group demanded the woman leave immediately and warned her not to return to the hospital. They instructed her to find alternative plans for her delivery, insisting she should return to Zimbabwe. “Today, when you get home, start making arrangements on where you are going to deliver that baby because here in Pretoria West you are not coming. We do not want you anymore! Go home!” they declared.

Despite the woman’s attempts to reason with her attackers, explaining that she was not responsible for the situation back in Zimbabwe, the women grew more hostile. They told her to seek help from South African leaders instead. “You can go to Ramaphosa’s house or Julius Malema’s house. They will help you deliver this child. You are using our facilities, so we are talking to the right person, it is you who came here to give birth, and you are nothing. You are not a South African,” one woman said.

This incident is not isolated. Xenophobic attacks against Zimbabweans and other foreign nationals in South Africa have been escalating, with immigrants often accused of overburdening public services, especially healthcare. Authorities in South Africa have consistently expressed concerns about the strain caused by migrants fleeing from the deteriorating social and economic conditions in Zimbabwe.

The video has sparked widespread outrage and debate online, with human rights groups condemning the attack and calling for urgent measures to address xenophobia. Many South Africans, however, expressed support for the women’s actions, citing the mounting pressure on healthcare facilities and other public services.

As South Africa continues to struggle with high unemployment, economic inequality, and a stretched public healthcare system, foreign nationals—particularly those from neighboring Zimbabwe—remain vulnerable to xenophobic sentiments and violence.

The Zimbabwean government is yet to officially comment on the latest incident.