Soweto Gold founder Ndumiso Madlala dies aged 46

Renowned entrepreneur and founder of Soweto Gold Beer, Ndumiso Madlala, has passed away.
The 46-year-old died from liver failure.

His family revealed that he had been living with the condition for the last three years.

Madlala made history in 2013 when he launched Soweto Gold, South Africa’s first black-owned craft beer brand.

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His pioneering vision reshaped the local brewing industry, overcame long-standing obstacles, and put township entrepreneurship at the heart of the nation’s craft beer scene.

Madlala, who died last week, will be buried at his family home in KZN on September 6.

Family spokesperson Phakama Madlala described his brother as a very intelligent man with a big heart.

Ndumiso was one of seven children and the fourth born in the family.

Phakama further stated that after Ndumiso completed his schooling, he studied Chemical Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and went on to pursue his master’s at the University of Twente in the Netherlands.

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“When he came back, he had so much passion for his field, especially about brewing; he gave his all towards his industry, and we are grateful to the companies that he worked for.

“I remember his journey of starting Soweto Gold. He was so passionate about it, but also passionate about uplifting his community,” said Phakama.

Phakama said they were always proud of Ndumiso and continue to be proud of him to this day.

“Ndumiso built many businesses back home to help the communities have jobs. He also built several homes for underprivileged people, so he was a person with a big brain and a big heart. He will be missed both by his family and in the business strategy as well,” he concluded.