The South African media fraternity is mourning the loss of veteran broadcaster, editor, filmmaker, and cultural advocate Edward Mzwandile “Ed” Mangxaba, who passed away at the age of 75 following a short illness.
Mangxaba dedicated more than four decades of his life to community media development, indigenous language broadcasting, cultural preservation, and storytelling. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in South African media, particularly within the Eastern Cape and isiXhosa-speaking communities.
In August 1984, Mangxaba joined Radio Transkei, where he worked alongside some of the station’s most renowned broadcasters, including Saba Mbixane, Tsidi Jokwana, Hector GramGram, and many others. During his years at the station, he became a respected and familiar voice, earning the trust and admiration of listeners across the region through his commitment to authentic community broadcasting.
Beyond radio, Mangxaba made significant contributions to the media industry through publishing and filmmaking. He founded Imiliza Film Productions in the OR Tambo District, producing content that celebrated indigenous cultures, traditional leadership, and the preservation of the isiXhosa language.
Among his most notable achievements was the development of Inkonyana Yohlanga, a television series based on extensive research conducted in the OR Tambo District. The production was aimed at preserving royal history, documenting local heritage, and promoting authentic isiXhosa storytelling for future generations.
Mangxaba was also widely recognized as the co-founder of Dizindaba – Iphephandaba lesiXhosa, a community newspaper dedicated to providing news and information in isiXhosa. Through the publication, he championed community voices, promoted indigenous knowledge systems, and ensured that local stories received the attention they deserved.
His commitment to cultural preservation extended beyond media. He actively engaged with parliamentary committees and local governance structures, advocating for the growth of community media, the recognition of traditional leadership, and the preservation of AbaThembu history and heritage.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mangxaba remained passionate about empowering communities, mentoring young talent, and preserving South Africa’s rich cultural identity. His work as a broadcaster, filmmaker, publisher, and cultural advocate leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations of journalists, storytellers, and media practitioners.
He is survived by his wife, Anetta Mangxaba, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral and burial arrangements are currently being finalized by the family. Details regarding the date, time, and venue will be announced in due course.
May his soul rest in peace.
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