Themba Ndaba Says “Shaka Ilembe” Was Mbongeni Ngema’s Idea

Mbongeni Ngema‘s alleged friend, Themba Ndaba, has reportedly asserted that they were the creative minds behind ‘Shaka Ilembe,’ claiming that many projects, including the mentioned production, were taken from them due to financial constraints, as per ZiMoja.

Themba Ndaba claimed, “They stole my script, and the original name was Inkosi Ilembe because you cannot refer to a king by his name and say Shaka Ilembe.”

Reports suggest Ndaba also stated that he and Mbongeni Ngema collaborated on Shaka Zulu under Bomb Pictures. Additionally, he purportedly mentioned working on documentaries for Oliver Tambo and Jacob Zuma.

Mbongeni Ngema passed away in a car crash on December 27, and his memorial service was held on January 3 at the Playhouse, Durban, attended by former President Jacob Zuma. During the service, Zuma disclosed their plan to collaborate on a project about his life.

Zuma expressed, “Mbongeni was not just a friend but a comrade who fought for freedom with all his might. He was prominent worldwide, educating the youth through storytelling and song. He wanted to create a story about my life, and we agreed to meet after Christmas.”

Ngema’s funeral is scheduled for January 5 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC).

It will receive a Special Provincial Funeral. This special recognition has been accorded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as reported by SABC.