Nandi Nyembe, a celebrated South African actress and cultural figure, has died at the age of 75, sparking tributes and highlighting the urgent need for reforms to support veteran artists in the industry.

Nandi Nyembe, affectionately known as "Mam' Nandi", died on August 23, 2025 at the age of 75 after a long illness. Her death was confirmed by her daughter and the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture, bringing to an end an illustrious acting career that spanned nearly four decades. Nyembe was a versatile artist, known for her roles in popular television shows such as Zone 14, Yizo Yizo, Soul City, Isibaya, House of Zwide and Adulting. She also appeared in major films such as Reasonable Man, Saturday Night at the Palace and Yesterday. In addition to acting, she was known as a sangoma, which added cultural depth to her performances.

Following her death, many tributes poured in from various media and official sources. The Gauteng Legislative Assembly's Committee on the Protection of Personalities (SACR) has described her as a "cultural torchbearer", highlighting her significant contribution to reflecting South Africa's resilience. Actress Nhlanhla Kunene has described her as a "walking masterclass", highlighting the gap her absence leaves in the acting world. Glamour South Africa magazine has praised her authenticity and mentorship, while fellow creators and fans have celebrated her storytelling skills and kindness on social media.

Nyembe's death has also sparked discussions about the neglect and financial hardships faced by veteran artists in South Africa. Despite a fundraising event earlier this year that raised R6,000 for her, Nyembe has not received the funds or support she was promised. Minister Gayton McKenzie, who had promised personal donations, only visited her after her death. Leading figures in the music industry have highlighted the systemic failure to support artists, drawing parallels to how deceased legends are sometimes exploited for profit. There have been calls for reforms to protect artists’ rights, and activists on social media have urged legislative action to support an amendment to the Artists Protection Act.

Nandi Nyembe’s legacy is seen not only as the loss of a talented artist, but also as a warning to the entertainment industry. In her memory, there are proposals for immediate measures to ensure fair treatment and financial security for aging artists, such as fair wages, pensions and royalties. Institutional reforms are needed to better support artists and encourage mentorship. In addition, the creation of scholarships, festivals or workshops in her name could preserve her spirit and dedication to the arts. As the country mourns her loss, there is an opportunity for meaningful change that recognizes the contributions of iconic figures like Nandi Nyembe.