Ndumiso Madlala, founder of Soweto Gold Beer, dies at 49

Well-known entrepreneur and founder of the popular Soweto Gold Beer, Ndumiso Madlala has died from liver failure.

He was 49 years old.

His family said he had been battling with the condition for the past three years.

Madlala, who died last week, will be laid to rest at his family homestead in KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday, September 6.

A pioneering businessman, Madlala was the visionary behind Soweto Gold, South Africa’s first black-owned craft beer brand, which he launched in 2013. 

He was widely recognised for transforming the local brewing landscape and uplifting township entrepreneurship.

Speaking to IOL News, family spokesperson Phakama Kevin Madlala described him as "a very intelligent man, but also blessed with a big heart".

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

After completing his schooling, he enrolled at the University of Natal to study chemical engineering, driven by a passion for numbers and innovation.

“He had a remarkable memory and a natural love for numbers,” said Phakama. 

“He pursued chemical engineering and later completed his master’s degree at the University of Twente in the Netherlands.”

Upon his return to South Africa, Madlala channelled his expertise and passion into brewing, which eventually led to the creation of Soweto Gold Beer.

“I remember talking to him when he was starting the brand. He said he wanted to build the brewery in Soweto because he wanted to be among the people,” Phakama recalled.

“We were so proud of him, and we still are. He not only founded a successful business but also gave back to his community. He started a number of businesses back home, created jobs, and even built homes for people in need.”

Phakama said the family will deeply miss his dedication to education, his energy, and his love for community development.

He will be sorely missed. He was full of energy, and it was contagious. His legacy goes beyond business; his passion for education and development will live on. 

He added, “He will be missed not only by the family but also by the wider business fraternity.”

Madlala leaves behind two children, a daughter and a son.

According to the family, his health worsened in recent weeks due to complications related to liver failure.

“Ndumiso began experiencing liver issues about three years ago, as the doctors say,” said Phakama. “His condition worsened around two weeks ago.”

His funeral will be held on Saturday, September 6, in Elandskop, KwaZulu-Natal.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News