SA: Condolences pour in for arts professional Rosemary Mangope

The news was confirmed by local media, with several arts professionals and politicians offering their condolences to Mangope, the daughter-in-law of the late leader of the Bantustan (homeland) of Bophuthatswana.

“The arts have lost a formidable champion, a leader whose vision and passion shaped the cultural landscape of South Africa,” IKS Cultural Consulting boss, André Le Roux, said. “Ntshebo Rosemary Mangope was not just an executive or an administrator, she was a force, a believer in the power of artistic expression to transform lives.”

National Arts Council of Zambia director, Maanka Chipindi, wrote: “I’m deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the former CEO of NAC South Africa and IFACCA Board Member. Rosemary Mangope was a true leader, a passionate advocate for the arts, and a dear friend. Her spirit and legacy will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family during this difficult time.”

A member of the ActionSA political party, Mangope founded the Mmabana Arts and Culture Centres, which have produced numerous prominent South African artists. Throughout her career, she held several prestigious positions, including Chief Director at the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Divisional Executive at the Development Bank of Southern Africa, and CEO of the National Arts Council until her retirement in April 2021. She was succeeded by interim CEO Marion Mbina-Mthembu, who later handed over to Julie Diphofa.

Mangope’s departure from the NAC was prompted by an investigation into the mismanagement of R300 million in Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP) funds. She was suspended alongside the council’s CFO, Clifton Changfoot. The investigation ultimately led to their suspension.

The NAC issued the following statement in 2022 to announce Mangope’s departure: “Prior to the conclusion of the hearing, the NAC and Ms. Mangope agreed to part ways amicably. The mutual separation agreement was signed by the parties on the 14th of April 2022 and its terms remain confidential. Following conclusion of the agreement, the NAC has withdrawn the charges against Ms. Mangope.”