ANC Caucus in Ekurhuleni has leant with shock and sadness on the passing away of veteran actor Bab’ MacDonald Ndodana Mathunjwa.
Mathunjwa (73) passed away on Tuesday, 01 June 2021.
“Bab’ Mathunjwa was an epitome of resilience in the art industry. This renowned actor has been exemplary and continued to nature young talents all across the country over the years,” – ANC Ekurhuleni Caucus Chief Whip said.
Born in the Eastern Cape, now known as Nelson Mandela Bay, on the 15 of July 1948.
He moved to Kwa-Thema, the City of Ekurhuleni in the late 50s and early 60s searching for his older brother and other relatives he had never met after his parents had passed on.
He attended Zamani Primary school. His music career moved him to Soweto and other parts of South Africa, he however kept on finding his way back to Kwa-Thema, the community which he loved so dearly. Until he chose to settle here full-time and uplift the community which nurtured him.
He has appeared in numerous tv adverts but was most famous for his roles in Stokvel, Home Affairs uGugu no Andile, iThemba, Ubambo Lwami, Khululeka, Intsika, Bone of my Bones, Soul City, ‘Sgudi ‘Snaysi, and Generations amongst others.
With his first love being music he toured with Sikhulu, The Warrior; Stamping and other live performance productions across Europe as both a band member and producer of some of the music which was performed there. His musical career spanned across decades with some of his more notable work being his composing for local groups and artists such as Abigail Kubheka, Soul Brothers, The Angels, the late Jacob Radebe (Mpharanyana), and quite a number of albums for Amadodana Ase Wesile.
He was also a member of The Peddlers and Sakhile, both South African bands.
He also produced and wrote the songs in the Love is here to stay LP by Deborah (Fraser) and The Hot Soul Singers along with his also deceased younger brother Madoda Mathunjwa.
“Bab’ Mathunjwa will always be remembered for his electrifying energy and Ubuntu which manifested throughout his various roles he played on our television screens. As we celebrate youth month, we strongly believe that 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 discipline” Cllr Dlabathi concluded.
