Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has paid tribute to actor and entertainer Roland Mqwebu, who died on Friday following a long illness.
Mqwebu was known as Baba Mkhize in the isiZulu television sitcom, Emzini Wezinsizwa. “It is indeed saddening to learn that our own celebrated legend in the field of arts and culture, Mr Mqwebu, has departed,” Zuma said in a statement on Saturday.
“The industry has lost one of its much loved and talented actors and the country is much poorer without him. “On behalf of government and all South Africans we convey our sincere condolences to the Mqwebu family, relatives, friends, and all in the entertainment industry. “
“May Mr Mqwebu's soul rest in eternal peace,” Zuma said.
Mqwebu would be remembered for his role in feature films and dramas, such as Shaka Zulu, the presidency said in the statement. He was also an accomplished public relations practitioner and marketing expert.
He was a brand manager for a rice brand for many years, a job he executed with diligence before retirement, the presidency said.
ANA