South Africa is in mourning following the death of Dr. Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, a revered praise poet known affectionately as “Imbongi.” Mbangeni, whose powerful performances at high-profile events captivated audiences both locally and internationally, passed away on the morning of 31 August 2024 at the age of 47, following a brief illness.
Born in Nqamakwe in the Eastern Cape, Mbangeni’s journey into the world of praise poetry began at the age of 22 after the birth of her son. In an interview with The Nollywood Reporter, Mbangeni recounted her grandmother’s wisdom, which profoundly influenced her work. Her grandmother had emphasized the importance of introducing a newborn to their ancestors and assigning them clan names to foster a strong sense of identity and belonging. This cultural insight became a cornerstone of Mbangeni’s evocative performances.
Despite her profound talent, Mbangeni’s early career was marked by struggle and rejection, largely due to the niche nature of praise poetry. However, her fortunes changed dramatically in 2002 when she joined the Soweto Gospel Choir. This pivotal role allowed her to share her art on an international stage, taking her performances to North America, Scotland, New Zealand, and Germany.
Her unexpected death has left a void in the world of South African arts. According to family spokesperson Zilungelo Mbangeni, Dr. Mbangeni was admitted to the hospital only a week before her passing. “It was just a short illness, just a week, and then last night she went to the hospital. Around 7am today, she passed on,” Zilungelo Mbangeni confirmed to News24.
Following the announcement of her passing, tributes have poured in from across South Africa. Social media platforms have been abuzz with messages of condolences, reflecting on her significant contributions to the cultural fabric of the nation. Fans, fellow artists, and public figures have shared heartfelt memories and celebrated her legacy.
Dr. Bishop Jessica Mbangeni’s death is a poignant reminder of the rich cultural heritage she embodied and the indelible mark she left on the world of poetry and performance. Her unique voice and dedication to preserving and promoting praise poetry will be remembered with deep respect and admiration.