
We are saddened by the loss of Don Mattera’s eloquent, rousing & revolutionary voice for justice. As we observe International Nelson #MandelaDay, we remember Bra Don as a patriot, who in the spirit of this commemorative day, did what he could, with what he had, where he was. pic.twitter.com/UgrHP6PPLb
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) July 18, 2022
Tweeps are also remembering him.
Renowned South African poet, former journalist, activist & freedom fighter, Omaruddin Donato “Don” Mattera has passed away at the age of 87.
May Allah bless his soul and strengthen his family, friends and comrades. pic.twitter.com/NJkWahpihX— Ponty Moletsane (@pontymoletsane1) July 18, 2022
Don Mattera once said to me he doesn’t watch Generations, when I asked why, he said: ‘Because I’ve never seen a character on the show go to the loo’. 😂 We laughed about it, but I knew what he meant. So when I write, I’m always trying to stay true to life, because of Ntate Don pic.twitter.com/1sWtLNaHG7
— Fana L. Mokoena (@fanamokoena) July 18, 2022
Tata Don Mattera a leader against colonial-apartheid a legend of creative industry “Memory is the Weapon, Azanian Love Song and Gone With The Twilight. We will forever salute this great revolutionary. pic.twitter.com/gBuLi2u4AZ
— Andile Lungisa (@mrlungisa) July 18, 2022
The Tambo Foundation is devastated to learn of the passing of veteran poet & activist, Don Mattera. Mattera leaves behind an incredible body of work spanning decades.
“I would like to be remembered as a man who loved his country & his people.”
May the soul of this giant RIP. pic.twitter.com/MqsMIqGrts— Tambo Foundation (@TamboFoundation) July 18, 2022
Go well Kokwana! MHSRIP and Rise in Glory. Don Mattera, poet, activist, humanitarian, community person, non-racist and actually a real human being. Kokwana! pic.twitter.com/r2hxikp5py
— Tito Mboweni (@tito_mboweni) July 18, 2022
His passing comes as the Arts fraternity is still mourning the passing of seasoned actress Busi Lurayi. The actress died last week following a short illness.
“Busisiwe was excused from set due to not being well. After not returning to work, colleagues tracked down the family. Once her dad was notified he immediately went to Busisiwe’s house where he found her in her daughter’s room. He called the police who summoned paramedics. Busi was declared dead at 11.15pm. The family is devastated” said Sonti Lurayi
TV producer, writer and director Mandla N, who worked with her on SABC1’s highly acclaimed sitcom Ses’Top la, shared his heartfelt tribute and memories with Busi Lurayi.
“I never expected to be writing this, especially for you Busi. We created magic together for many years, I’ll forever be grateful to you for the lessons. Your passion for the craft, your fierce spirit and your infectious smile will be dearly missed. Thank you for sharing your gift with us, the industry has truly lost a giant. Rest in power my friend #Gundiforlife.” wrote Mandla N
Image Cred: Twitter