Doreen Mokgolo
Legendary actor and musician, MacDonald “Bra Mac” Mathunjwa, was laid to rest in an emotional send-off on Saturday morning in Kwa-Thema, Springs in Ekurhuleni.
Bra Mac was known for his comedy roles in various local comedy shows which include Khululeka, Stokvel and Soul City. But some of Mathunjwa’s most important work was done when the camera was switched off.
He spearheaded the Living Legends Fraternity Trust, fighting for the work of living legends to be identified, captured, protected and promoted even after their death.
Mathunjwa was also remembered for his dedication to fighting substance abuse in young people through the arts in Kwa-Thema.
Ward councillor and friend Johannes Sibeko remembered Bra Mac for his big heart and dedication to the development of Kwa-Thema.
“Before his death he was working with young and local filmmakers on his new production. He played an instrumental role in the fundraising of many projects of development when he was not touring the world with work,” he said.
During his memorial service held at Kwa-Thema Community Hall shortly before the funeral, his best friend and fellow actor, Simphiwe Nkosi, lashed out at the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture for failing to take care of the artists until they had died.
“The department only shows up at artists’ funerals, roll-out red carpets for their casket and share their eulogies. Mathunjwa, like other artists, died living hand to mouth at a public hospital and fighting for his and other artists owed royalties,” said Nkosi.
He added that there were days when Mathunjwa’s children went to bed on an empty stomach yet their father was an internationally celebrated artist.
“He has a lot of film projects that are good but with lack of funding and support from the department nothing will ever come out of them.”
“Bra Mac” Mathunjwa died at Pholosong Hospital due to Covid-19 related complications on Wednesday.
