McKenzie's actions continue to be closely watched by the public and stakeholders in the arts and sports sectors.
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| Gayton McKenzie, Nandi Nyembe, South African politics, Department of Sports Arts and Culture, |
South Africa's Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is under growing scrutiny after failing to honor a public promise made to beloved actress Nandi Nyembe a respected figure in South Africa's entertainment industry, best known for her roles in Yizo Yizo and Zone 14.
In April 2025, McKenzie pledged to donate R20,000 to Nyembe and visit her at her Soweto home to offer support amid her financial struggles. The commitment, made during a widely shared video call, was met with widespread praise on social media at the time. “Send the lady your banking details... I’m sending you something to tide you over. I’m coming to see you, Mama Nandi,” McKenzie said.
Nyembe: 'I’m Still Waiting'
Despite the viral nature of the gesture, Nandi Nyembe has since revealed that the promised visit never took place, and she hasn't heard from the minister since the video call.
“Nobody has called or said anything to me, so I am in the dark,” she told Sunday World. Expressing her frustration, Nyembe added, “I’ve already lost faith in politicians. The ANC said the same thing not long ago. People come here with promises, but they never follow through.”
Nyembe, who faces health challenges and supports her son with medical expenses, stressed that she is not looking for sympathy. “I need a script, not sympathy,” she said, reiterating her desire to keep working rather than depend on empty pledges or handouts.
McKenzie’s Growing List of Unfulfilled Promises
McKenzie's broken promise to Nyembe isn't an isolated case. His commitment to revive Bloemfontein Celtic, once a cherished name in South African football, has also gone unfulfilled. Despite public announcements and fan anticipation, no concrete steps have been taken to bring the club back to life.
Additionally, the minister’s involvement in the high-profile Joshlin Smith case has attracted criticism. Reports suggest that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) may take action against McKenzie for allegedly interfering with the ongoing investigation into the child’s disappearance.
Public and Social Media Reaction
Public reaction has been swift and critical. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), users are questioning the credibility of McKenzie's commitments:
> “He talks big, but where’s the action?” one post read, capturing the general mood of disillusionment.
Activists, arts industry professionals, and political commentators are also questioning whether McKenzie is using high-profile cases and figures like Nyembe for publicity without delivering real results.
Promises Must Be Backed by Action
While Gayton McKenzie's promises may have been well-intentioned, the lack of follow-through is now damaging both his reputation and public trust in government support for struggling artists and athletes. As the backlash grows, the minister faces increasing pressure to actnot just talk.
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