Soweto Gold Beer Founder Ndumiso Madlala D!es from Liver Failure
Soweto Gold Beer Founder Ndumiso Madlala D!es from Liver Failure – South African entrepreneur Ndumiso Madlala, the founder of Soweto Gold Beer and a pioneer in the African craft brewing industry, has sadly passed away due to liver failure.
Madlala, who made history by establishing South Africa’s first black-owned brewery, will be laid to rest at his family’s rural home in Elandskop, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday, 6 September 2025.
The family confirmed that his body will be transported from Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal during the week, with final arrangements for his memorial service yet to be made public.
ALSO READ: Fatal Crash on Mutare Road Claims Life of Driver’s Wife
Madlala was a qualified chemical engineer and a graduate of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.
He made a bold move in 2013 when he left the corporate world to launch Soweto Gold Beer — a decision that would break barriers in the South African brewing industry.
His flagship brew, Soweto Gold Lager, blended traditional ingredients like maize and yeast, and quickly gained a loyal following.
In 2014, the brand earned national recognition when it was awarded Best Craft Beer in South Africa.
Madlala’s journey inspired many entrepreneurs across Southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, as he challenged industry norms and proved that African talent could thrive in spaces historically dominated by large corporations.
