The death of popular actor and theatre personality Ndivhuho Munyai has been described as a significant loss not only to his family but also to the whole of Limpopo and beyond.
Munyai was better known by various stage names he adopted in different dramas and soapies, such as Mareda, Major 11, Vhafunzi Vho Lufhaho, and Major 100. He passed away on Saturday when the driver of a bakkie transporting him and several other people lost control and the vehicle rolled several times. He was the only fatality at the scene, while the other five passengers were rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
The accident occurred at Mabidi, near Vuwani, on Saturday afternoon.
Munyai will be remembered for the precision with which he portrayed numerous roles in radio dramas, films, and the popular Phalaphala FM soapie Ndi Yone Mini Yeneyi. The soapie, which has been on air for several years, featured him as controversial pastor Vhafunzi Vho Lufhaho.
Family spokesperson Pastor Piet Nemudzivhadi described his death as a devastating blow. "This is a sad time for us as a family and for his extended family across the country. His death caught us by surprise. He was in good spirits when he left home on Saturday morning and didn't even tell us where he was going. It was only late that afternoon that we received the devastating call informing us of his passing," he said.
Nemudzivhadi added that Munyai's talent and passion for the theatre and the arts were undeniable. "We are still struggling to come to terms with his death. As we speak, we are busy preparing for his burial. He will be laid to rest at the local Ramukhuba cemetery on Saturday, 7 December," he said.
Fellow actor Jeanette Mafadza, who played the character of Phiriphiri, the late actor's sister in Ndi Yone Mini Yeneyi, said Munyai's death had deeply affected her. "We started as fellow actors, but over time we bonded like blood siblings. A fortnight ago, we were recording together and even took pictures. Little did I know it would be our last recording. I will miss him dearly," she said.
Mr Ndavheleseni Mavu Nebulu, who worked with Munyai on his latest project, was on the verge of tears. "We had just finished shooting scenes for a new film titled Mukwasha last Thursday. It's heartbreaking that he didn't live to see it air. I worked with Munyai on many productions, and he was always a pleasure to collaborate with. He could fit seamlessly into any role. In Mukwasha, he played a headman close to the senior traditional leader. His death has robbed us of an immensely talented man," he said.
Ndivhuho Brilliance Munyai was born at Nesengani Tshifhefhe, near Vuwani, on 24 June 1992. He completed his Grade 12 at Kolokoshani Secondary School in 2012. He began his acting career alongside notable talents such as KK from Muvhango, who also hails from the same area.