Mandela mourns Matshikiza

2008-09-16 13:05

Johannesburg - The Nelson Mandela Foundation said on Tuesday it had lost a friend with the death of writer, playwright and actor John Matshikiza.

"John was a friend of the foundation, who supported our work and would often offer advice as well as criticism where necessary," said memory programme manager at the foundation Verne Harris.

Matshikiza collapsed and died of a heart attack in a restaurant in Melville, Johannesburg, on Monday night.

Harris said Nelson Mandela had "cherished Matshikiza's independent and outspoken opinions.

"After a function at the foundation where John spoke, Madiba approached him afterwards and said 'You young people, you must keep on troubling us," said Harris.

Matshikiza was born in Johannesburg in 1954 and grew up in Lusaka and London. He also lived in the United States, Amsterdam and various African countries including Senegal.

Many talents

He trained in drama and worked in theatre, television and film as an actor, director and writer.

He was also a columnist and feature writer for newspapers including the Mail & Guardian.

In 2002, he won the regional and national Vodacom Journalist of the Year Award in the specialist category for his column, With the Lid Off.

His published works include South Where Her Feet Cool on Ice and Prophets in the Black Sky.

Harris said Matshikiza had given so much back to South Africa through his talents.

"[He] will probably best be remembered for this independent voice that could be heard in newspaper columns, at theatres, in coffee bars and restaurants."

"John's words will live on in his written and dramatic work and his critical voice will serve as a reminder to all of us of the freedom of expression this country struggled so hard to achieve."

- SAPA