Passionate actor, gango master, Liverpool fan: Aleck Zulu remembered by Matesu Dube

Arts administrator and Umkhathi Theatre Works director Matesu Dube has revealed how the death of celebrated thespian Aleck Zulu came as a shock, describing him as a passionate performer who approached his craft with unmatched dedication.

Zulu, famous for his role as “Skoro” on Amakhosi’s series Amakorokoza, died at his rented home in Sotshangane Flats on March 30, 2026, at the age of 54.

Matesu recounted that his friendship with Zulu began in the early 1990s.
“Yesterday, we received the sad news of the death of our dear brother, Aleck Zulu. It is painful that we’re mourning one of our own, someone so passionate about theatre, just after celebrating World Theatre Day.

“I first met Alivoe (Zulu) in the early 1990s when he was working with NASA under the late Mike Sabiko. He later joined Township Artistes, working alongside Raisedon Baya, William Nyandoro, Dumisani Luphahla, Ramsey Kasawaya, and others.
“Years later, he appeared in Cont Mhlanga’s television series Sinjalo, where he played the character Godogodo. He also featured in Amakorokoza as Skoro.
“Over time, we became close friends, meeting at shows and festivals. I remember sharing a great time with him at the Harare International Festival of Arts. We also worked together at the Intwasa Arts Festival.
“When I later moved into film, we spent many days on set together. He was acting in most of my productions, and sometimes he even handled sound,” said Matesu.

He described Zulu as a warm-hearted human and a talented cook.
“He was our Gango Master during Sunday Gangos at MaShumba. He was a proud Liverpool supporter, humble, and deeply dedicated to his craft.
“I would often say to him, ‘Alivoe, ngiyakuncanywa (I love you),’ and he would reply, ‘Lami ngiyalincanywa (I love you too).’ The arts will not be the same without him,” said Matesu.

Mourners are gathered at 164 Sotshangane Flats.