Presley Chweneyagae, best known for his iconic role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, was laid to rest on Saturday at Zandfontein Cemetery in Pretoria. The beloved actor’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many who knew and admired him.
Earlier that morning, hundreds of mourners gathered at the Akasia Community Hall to pay their final respects. The hall was filled with friends, family, fellow actors, and admirers, all united in grief and remembrance. Floral arrangements adorned the venue, while photographs of Chweneyagae’s career milestones served as a reminder of the lasting impact he made on South African cinema and culture.
There was a profound sense of loss in the air, but also a strong current of celebration—of a life lived passionately, a talent that shone brightly, and a legacy that will not be forgotten. Speaker after speaker rose to honour the late actor, sharing stories that spoke not only to his brilliance on screen but also to his kindness, humility, and generosity off it.
Chweneyagae passed away last week following respiratory complications. His sudden death shocked fans across the country and reverberated throughout the African entertainment industry. At just 39 years old, he had already accomplished more than many do in a lifetime—and yet, there was still so much he had hoped to do.
One of the most moving moments of the service came when fellow actor and close friend Zenzo Ngqobe delivered a deeply emotional tribute. The two had shared both a personal and professional bond, and Ngqobe’s words captured the heartbreak and disbelief felt by so many.
“I just want to say, my boy—you know I’m strong. But you made me weak,” Ngqobe said, his voice cracking with emotion. “The two weeks we spent at home… you came to check on me. We spoke about our plans. You told me about the role you were writing for me. I told you about the one I had for you in a film we were supposed to do together.”
Ngqobe paused, clearly struggling to continue. The hall fell into a heavy silence, every ear tuned to his words.
Presley Chweneyagae Laid to Rest Amid Emotional Farewell in Pretoria
“I realised those were our plans. But now… now we have to re-adjust, redo everything—because we are dealing with God’s plan.”
His tribute brought many in the audience to tears. It served as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life, the unpredictability of death, and the sacredness of human connection—especially among those who create and dream together.
Chweneyagae’s journey as an actor began at a young age, but it was his breakout performance in Tsotsi that catapulted him to international acclaim. The film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006, introduced global audiences to his raw talent and emotional depth. But those who knew him best say that his heart was even greater than his skill.
In the years that followed, Chweneyagae remained active in the industry, not only acting but also mentoring young artists and participating in projects that aimed to uplift African voices. His work extended beyond film and theatre—he was passionate about community development, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
At the funeral, colleagues described him as a “gentle giant,” a man who carried himself with quiet dignity and unshakable purpose. “He never chased fame,” one speaker noted. “He chased meaning.”
As the funeral procession made its way to Zandfontein Cemetery under the soft afternoon sky, mourners sang hymns, whispered prayers, and embraced each other tightly. The sun dipped low on the horizon as Presley Chweneyagae was finally laid to rest, his legacy etched into the hearts of a nation.
Though he is gone, the roles he played, the dreams he ignited, and the lives he touched will continue to inspire for generations to come. Presley Chweneyagae’s story may have ended too soon—but the light he shared will not fade.
