The North West provincial government has officially begun engagements with key stakeholders as preparations get underway to lay beloved South African actor Presley Chweneyagae to rest. The internationally acclaimed actor passed away on Tuesday at the age of 40, leaving behind a legacy that has deeply impacted the nation’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
Chweneyagae, best known for his leading role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, was born in 1984 in the North West province. His roots in the region remained strong throughout his life, and it is within this province that the final tributes will be made to honour the life and career of a man who rose from local stages to international screens.
North West Government Pays Tribute to Chweneyagae
Acting Premier of the North West, Kenetswe Mosenogi, expressed the province’s collective grief, stating that the government and the people of the North West are deeply saddened by the loss of such a towering figure in South African arts.
Presley Chweneyagae was more than just an actor,” said Mosenogi. “He was a symbol of perseverance, talent, and cultural pride. As a province, we are committed to ensuring that his contributions are remembered and that his legacy lives on for generations.”
Mosenogi called on South Africans to not only mourn Chweneyagae’s untimely passing but to also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind — one of artistic brilliance, resilience, and community upliftment. Plans are underway to host a series of commemorative events leading up to his funeral, allowing fans and colleagues to pay their respects.
Honouring a Lifelong Commitment to the Arts
According to provincial spokesperson Sello Tatai, Chweneyagae was not just a gifted actor, but a cultural force whose influence extended far beyond the screen. “Presley Chweneyagae was a cultural icon whose contribution to the country’s arts and entertainment fraternity will be remembered for years to come,” Tatai said.
He noted that Chweneyagae had a unique ability to portray the complexities of South African life, using his roles to challenge social norms, highlight injustice, and foster unity. His performances consistently captured the hearts of audiences across the country and the globe.
Chweneyagae’s passion for drama began in his hometown of Mahikeng, where he nurtured his craft at the Mmabana Arts Centre, a vital institution in the North West province dedicated to developing emerging talent. It was here that his artistic journey took flight, laying the groundwork for what would become a prolific and influential career.
Known affectionately by fans and locals as Cobreezy wa le Ezzy, Chweneyagae never forgot his roots. He regularly returned to the North West to mentor young actors and participate in community arts initiatives, often emphasizing the importance of staying connected to one’s origins.
“Presley was a proud son of this province,” said Mosenogi. “His success on the world stage did not take him away from us—it brought him closer. He remained dedicated to inspiring others, especially youth, to pursue excellence in the arts.”
A National and International Legacy
Presley Chweneyagae’s impact transcended provincial boundaries. His portrayal of “Tsotsi,” a troubled young gangster seeking redemption, catapulted him into global fame and earned him critical acclaim, including recognition at the 2006 Academy Awards when the film won Best Foreign Language Film.
Beyond Tsotsi, Chweneyagae delivered powerful performances in films such as State of Violence, More Than Just a Game, and iNumber Number. He also took to the stage, starring in a number of theatrical productions that reflected his deep engagement with South African society and history.
His commitment to storytelling that resonates with everyday realities made him not just an entertainer, but a voice for the voiceless.
In the coming days, the North West provincial government will announce official memorial and funeral arrangements in collaboration with the Chweneyagae family. A special tribute programme is also in development, which will include performances, speeches, and exhibitions celebrating Chweneyagae’s life and body of work.
Plans are also being discussed for a permanent memorial in his hometown, potentially including the renaming of a local arts facility in his honour.
As South Africa mourns one of its brightest stars, the name Presley Chweneyagae continues to inspire — a testament to the enduring power of art, identity, and perseverance.
The North West provincial government has begun engaging stakeholders as preparations to lay renowned South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae, to rest begin.
The internationally acclaimed talent died on Tuesday at the age of 40.
Chweneyagae was born in the North West in 1984, and the provincial government has committed to honouring his contribution to the country’s cultural and arts heritage.
Acting Premier Kenetswe Mosenogi has joined the country in mourning the award-winning actor and has urged fans to celebrate Chweneyagae’s legacy.
Spokesperson Sello Tatai said, “Chweneyagae was not just a talented actor but a cultural icon whose contribution to the country’s arts and entertainment fraternity will be remembered for years to come”.
Mosenogi maintains Chweneyagae, affectionately known as ‘cobreezy wa le ezzy’ was a proud product of the North West province and honed his craft at Mmabana, in Mahikeng, where his passion for dramatic arts flourished.