Tributes continue to pour in for the three South African youngsters Akhumzi Jezile, Thobani Mseleni and Siyasanga Kobese who died in a car crash near Queenstown in the Eastern Cape on Saturday.
The trio were travelling together when their car crashed on the N6 killing a total of five people. The multi-talented actor, producer, TV and radio presenter Jezile was a familiar face in South Africa. The ever-smiling Mthatha-born star started as a presenter on SABC’s children’s programme YoTV.
In 2014, his acting talent was recognised when he won a SAFTA Award for his role as Ngulube in the television drama Tempy Pushas.
The gifted eZibeleni-born Kobese was an actress who played the character of “Siphokazi” on the drama series Zabalaza. She was also well-known for her powerful voice while singing with Joyous Celebration choir.
Fort Beaufort-born Mseleni was introduced to South African television viewers while playing roles including that of "Bhonyongo" in the drama series Matatiele and recently, as Babalo in the award-winning movie Inxeba: The Wound.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said the nation has been dealt a triple and breath-taking blow.
"Death has robbed our nation of three of its versatile and glittering lodestars who- like the 'three wise men from the East' came into this world bearing precious gifts and shared them generously,” the minister said on Sunday. All three were young, brilliant shining stars from whom the nation undoubtedly derived joy and delight from their long careers- and lives, Minister Mthethwa said.
“One cannot help but deduce that in this instance, death has been particularly unkind and jealous considering the untimely and sudden nature of the loss of life in a single moment, of these brilliant and young shining stars of South Africa's Arts and Creative industries.” Minister of Communications, Nomvula Mokonyane said she was saddened by the passing of the three saying South Africa continues to lose precious gems on the roads.
“It’s always sad when a nation loses such talent at a tender age. In his short-lived life, Akhumzi contributed to the entertainment industry what many could only achieve over decades," said Minister Mokonyane. The minister went on to urge everyone to be extra vigilant while driving for both short and long distances. - SAnews.gov.za
