The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has expressed deep sadness following the death of Owen Ndlovu, the former SABC sports presenter and music industry figure.
The 54-year-old was found dead in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni, on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, after he was reportedly hijacked and kidnapped in Katlehong the previous evening.
Ndlovu was a familiar voice and face to South African sports audiences during his years with the SABC. He remained active in the country’s creative industries through Michael Owen Production and his advocacy for local musicians and their rights, including his work with Artists United.
“Owen Ndlovu gave many years of his life to South African sport and South African music, informing and entertaining our people and standing up for the rights of our artists. His death, under circumstances no family should ever have to endure, is a profound loss to our broadcasting and creative sectors,” McKenzie said in a statement on Saturday.
The Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to Ndlovu’s wife, family, friends and colleagues. In line with the family’s request through their spokesperson, he appealed to members of the public and the media to exercise sensitivity and respect the family’s privacy.
McKenzie expressed his full support for the South African Police Service investigation and called for those responsible to be brought to justice. -SAnews.gov.za
