When you talk about people who truly lived for others, Songezo Mjongile’s name has to come up. He wasn’t one of those politicians who only made noise, he actually worked, fought, and stood for the kind of change most South Africans wanted to see. Even though he’s no longer here, the story of his life still inspires a lot of people today.
Born and raised in South Africa, Songezo’s journey wasn’t smooth or handed to him on a plate. He came from a working-class background, but that never stopped him from dreaming big. From Gugulethu to Mbekweni, he grew up watching how tough life could be for ordinary families and that shaped him into the kind of man who refused to keep quiet when he saw injustice.
Early Life and Education
Songezo Madiba Mjongile was born on November 26, 1973, in Port Elizabeth. He later moved to Cape Town and then Paarl, where most of his early memories were made. His parents, Siliti Joseph and Thembeka, were the kind of parents who believed in discipline, respect, and doing right by others.
He attended schools like Lwazi Primary, Mbekweni Higher Primary, Vuyani Higher Primary, and later Intshukumo Comprehensive (now Gugulethu Comprehensive). He finished at Mvuze-Mvuze High, now known as Joe Slovo High in Khayelitsha. He completed his matric in 1994. It was during this time that his love for leadership and activism started showing.
Political Life and Activism
At just 11 years old, while most kids his age were thinking about games, Songezo had already joined the fight against apartheid. He became part of the student protests when schools for Black students were being shut down. He joined the Township Student Congress (TOSCO), which was one of the youth movements supporting the ANC from underground. That was where he got the nickname “”Ngxamayo”—meaning someone who’s always pushing and moving fast with energy.
In 1993, he became the national president of COSAS (Congress of South African Students), a very powerful student body at that time. He fought against exam fees, corporal punishment, and other policies that oppressed students. Some of his contributions even helped shape new education laws after apartheid ended.
Later, he became a member of the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and spent years building programs that supported young people. He served as part of the national executive and headed the Youth Development desk. He helped push for projects like the Umsobomvu Youth Fund, National Youth Development Agency, and National Youth Commission, all focused on youth growth and empowerment.
He was also the CEO of Lembede Resources, the investment arm of the youth league. But through all of that, he remained focused on one goal, giving South African youth real opportunities, not just talk.
Leadership in the ANC
In 2008, Songezo became the ANC Treasurer for the Western Cape, and by 2011, he was elected as the ANC’s Provincial Secretary. He served in that position for close to a decade. Many who worked with him described him as firm but kind, someone who spoke truth, even when it was uncomfortable.
He was never afraid to challenge systems that were failing people. Whether it was within the ANC or in government discussions, he always put communities first. Even his opponents respected his discipline and the fact that he wasn’t easily shaken by politics.
Family Life
Songezo was married to Humile Mjongile. Together, they had a large family and shared many years of love and challenges. They were blessed with several children, including Zondwa Jr., Goapele, Mandisa, Thandolwethu, Sivikelo, Thando, Olwam, and Khetho. Sadly, the family lost one of their sons, Sakhisizwe, who drowned while they were living in Mbabane, Swaziland.
People close to Songezo always said he was a very grounded man. Despite being a busy politician, he was present as a father and always made time for his kids. He believed in raising children who understood hard work and respect.
Illness and Death
In 2020, Songezo revealed that he had been diagnosed with colon cancer. Even when his health started failing, he didn’t lose his spirit. In August 2020, he made a heartfelt post on Facebook talking about his condition and what he still wanted to see happen in the ANC. His words were simple but deep—he spoke about renewal, discipline, and going back to the real roots of the struggle.
He passed away on September 17, 2020, at his home in Morningside, Johannesburg. The news broke hearts across the country. During his memorial, tributes poured in from all corners—people describing him as “honest,” “reliable,” and “driven by purpose.”
Achievements and Legacy
Mjongile’s name still stands for true activism. From student movements to senior ANC leadership, he never lost focus on the people he served. He believed freedom meant nothing if it didn’t bring real change to ordinary lives.
He helped shape youth development programs that still exist today and mentored many of the younger leaders who now hold positions across South Africa. Even those who disagreed with him politically still respected his courage and his sense of responsibility.
Net Worth, Houses, and Cars
Songezo wasn’t the type to live loud or flaunt wealth. His lifestyle was simple. Most of his earnings came from his political positions and investments. He owned properties in Johannesburg and Cape Town and drove clean, classic cars—more about comfort than show.
His focus was never on luxury; he believed that the best measure of a man’s worth was how much good he left behind, not how much money he had.
Remembering Songezo
It’s not every day you find a leader like Songezo, someone who could speak with both heart and wisdom. His life reminds people that real leadership isn’t about power; it’s about service.
Even after his passing, his story continues to spark conversations. From his early days as a student activist to his later years in the ANC, he proved that one person’s determination can inspire a whole generation.
FAQs
Who was Songezo Mjongile?
A South African politician, activist, and former ANC Western Cape Secretary known for his fight for youth empowerment and equality.
When was he born?
November 26, 1973.
When did he die?
September 17, 2020, due to colon cancer complications.
Who was his wife?
He was married to Humile Mjongile.
How many children did he have?
He had several children with Humile, including Zondwa Jr., Goapele, and Mandisa.
What was his nickname?
He was nicknamed “Ngxamayo” by his peers for his restless energy.
What is his legacy?
His legacy lives through his role in education reform, youth empowerment, and his commitment to honest, people-focused leadership.
