Poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni remembered for her memorable career (Oupa Bopape/Gallo Images via Getty Images)
- South African praise poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, known as “Imbongi”, was renowned for her powerful performances at prestigious ceremonies.
- Mbangeni discovered her talent for praise poetry at the age of 22 but faced many rejections early in her career before joining the Soweto Gospel Choir in 2002, which allowed her to tour internationally.
- Mbangeni died on 31 August 2024 after a short illnes.
- For more lifestyle news, go to the News24 Life front page.
South African praise poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, also known as an “Imbongi” in isiXhosa, was renowned for her powerful poetic skills, which she showcased at prestigious ceremonies across the country in her colourful African attire.
Most notably, she performed at the late former president Nelson Mandela’s 46664 concerts in Cape Town and even for former president Thabo Mbeki’s inauguration, among many others.
Early life
Born and raised in Nqamakwe in the Eastern Cape, Mbangeni discovered her talent for praise poetry at the age of 22 after her son was born. In an interview with The Nollywood Reporter, Mbangeni recalled her grandmother’s advice, telling her that when a child is born out of wedlock, it is important to introduce the newborn to their ancestors to help them develop a sense of belonging and identity. Giving them clan names is crucial.
“When I was doing that, I felt the fire gushing out of me, words were rolling out, and it was a huge husky voice speaking, rolling, and rolling,” she said. “It felt like a demonic voice, and I thought I was in a trance. When I came down, my mom said to me: ‘You are a praise poet. And you must use that profoundly’.”
Early career
The beginning of her career was not easy. She faced rejection several times, especially given the genre in which she wanted to carve a path. However, in 2002, her life took a different turn after joining the Soweto Gospel Choir. This opportunity allowed her to tour different parts of the world, including North America, Scotland, New Zealand, and Germany.
Mbangeni was also the founder of KwaNtu Entertainment Designs, a record label and African traditional clothing brand located in Joburg’s Oriental Plaza in Johannesburg.
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Career highlights
Among her many career milestones, Mbangeni performed at the inauguration of former president Thabo Mbeki when he was sworn in as president of South Africa in 1999. She also performed at Mbeki’s 70th birthday celebration.
Acting gigs
In addition to her career as a celebrated poet, Mbangeni ventured into acting. She made her on-screen debut in Zabalaza in 2013, followed by a guest appearance on Skeem Saam. She also appeared on the SABC2 comedy series Dube on 2, along with other shows.
Death
On Saturday morning, 31 August 2024, the Mbangeni family released a public statement announcing that the 47-year-old had died in hospital that morning. “It was just a short illness, just a week, and then last night she went to the hospital. Around 7am today, she passed on,” family spokesperson Zilungelo Mbangeni confirmed to News24.
Following the announcement of her sudden and untimely death, South Africans took to social media to share their condolences.