On September 21, friends, family, and fans gathered to bid a heartfelt farewell to comedian and singer Philani Mabanga, affectionately known as Mfundisi Ntshebe. The beloved entertainer from Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, passed away on September 13 after a brief illness. His funeral, held at his home in Katlehong, was filled with emotional tributes, highlighting his significant contributions to the arts and entertainment industry.
Actor Sphiwe Nkosi, known for his role as Chirwali on the TV series *Emzini Wezinsizwa*, delivered a moving eulogy at the service. He expressed his sorrow over the lack of recognition and support for artists in South Africa, despite their significant contributions to the industry. “Artists like Mabanga have entertained and played a huge role in the industry, but they aren’t recognized. Sadly, most artists die in dire situations and can’t get help,” he lamented.
Sphiwe shared a poignant letter he wrote to his late friend, expressing his frustration with officials who he feels have neglected the arts community. “I wrote this letter with tears falling from my cheeks because of the officials who are full of themselves and have closed doors before my face when I needed help, leaving me in pain and traumatized,” he read, his voice breaking with emotion.https://x.com/happy_mnguni/status/1837430500320809395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1837430500320809395%7Ctwgr%5E69641db387acd3fab29418e7b42a78eb6eacc468%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.snl24.com%2Fdailysun%2Fcelebs%2Fcomedian-and-singer-mfundisi-ntshebe-laid-to-rest-in-ekurhuleni-on-saturday-20240921
Echoing Sphiwe’s sentiments, actor and artist Muzi Vilakazi criticized local officials for failing to assist Mabanga’s family in their time of need. “Even Ekurhuleni municipal officials failed to contribute towards helping Mabanga’s family. It’s disheartening that the municipality failed to recognize someone like Mabanga, who played a key role in promoting the arts,” Muzi stated.
Mjostana Mbele, also known as Pastor Mjosty, reminisced about his musical partnership with Mfundisi Ntshebe. He recalled their unique style and how they entertained music lovers together. “I used to ask myself who this artist was who entertained people just like me. We then met and appreciated each other in the industry,” he said, visibly moved by the memory of his friend. He emphasized the need for a stronger relationship between artists and the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture in both Ekurhuleni and Gauteng. “In KZN, officials from the department and municipalities are taking care of their artists,” Mbele noted, contrasting the situation with the lack of support in other regions.
Jerry Zwane, director of Taxido Arts and a long-time collaborator of Mfundisi Ntshebe, spoke of the disparity between how South African artists are treated at home versus abroad. “The respect and appreciation we received when we performed overseas is overwhelming, but here at home we are not. I even encourage my children not to pursue art as a career because they’ll suffer just like us and Mabanga, who contributed so much to the entertainment industry,” he expressed with a heavy heart.