South African poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni dies after short illness (Frennie Shivambu/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
- South African praise poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni’s memorial service will be held at The Market Theatre.
- The 47-year-old died on Saturday after a short illness.
- The funeral arrangements are currently being finalised, with the service expected to take place next week.
Details for praise poet Dr Jessica Mbangeni’s memorial service have been announced.
According to family spokesperson Zilungelo Mbangeni, the 47-year-old poet was rushed to hospital after suddenly falling ill.
“It was just a short illness, just a week, and then last night she went to the hospital. Around 7am today, she passed on,” he confirmed to News24.
The family initially announced the poet and spiritual leader’s death in a press statement shared on social media.
READ | SA poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni dies after being rushed to hospital
Mbangeni’s memorial service will be held on Friday at The Market Theatre (Dr John Kani Theatre). The family shared the details on her Instagram account.
“A dedicated theme of traditional wear during this time of mourning would be a reminder of her deep commitment to her culture and heritage. She was more than just a world-celebrated praise singer and a musical maestro; she was a cultural cornerstone, a beacon of hope, and an unstoppable force for artistic expression and advocacy,” read the statement.
The family also announced that there would be another celebration in Jamaica.
“We are also thrilled to inform you all that our beloved Dr Jessica Mbangeni will also be celebrated in Jamaica on 8 September as a show of contribution to the global community.”
Speaking to News24, family spokesperson Dr Stanley Khoza said funeral arrangements were still under way, and that it was expected to be held next week.
Mbangeni was described as a beacon of light, a voice of wisdom and a source of inspiration to many.
In 2002, she joined the Soweto Gospel Choir. This opportunity allowed her to tour different parts of the world, including North America, Scotland, New Zealand, and Germany.
Mbangeni was also the founder of KwaNtu Entertainment Designs, a record label and African traditional clothing brand located in Joburg’s Oriental Plaza.
She also performed at the inauguration of former president Thabo Mbeki in 1999 and at Mbeki’s 70th birthday celebration.
OBITUARY | Poetry icon Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni remembered for her voice of ceremonial power
