The news of Presley Chweneyagae’s sudden passing at the age of 40 has sent shockwaves through Botswana’s arts and entertainment community. Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of “Cobrizi” in the hit soap-opera spin-off, The River: Cobrizi, Chweneyagae transcended borders and won hearts across Southern Africa. His cheerful spirit and genuine affection for Botswana earned him a special place in the nation’s collective memory.
From Maun to Gaborone, streams of tributes and heartfelt remembrances have poured in. Fans gathered outside local cinemas where his films once screened, leaving bouquets of white lilies and handwritten notes. Culture Spears, Botswana’s flagship traditional music ensemble, led the public homage. Group leader Kabelo Mogwe posted on Facebook: “RIP wale Easy Cobrizi Mokwepa,” alongside a photograph capturing Chweneyagae laughing amidst friends. The caption resonated deeply, underscoring the genuine camaraderie he shared with the country’s creative scene.
Segametsi Kebonang, a former reporter with the Botswana Press Agency, fondly recalled meeting him both in Gaborone and Johannesburg. “He loved that word… massive,” she said, referencing his trademark enthusiasm. “He was ngwana ko gae,” Kebonang added—a Setswana phrase denoting someone who feels perfectly at home. She remembered his unwavering passion for the craft and his dream of mentoring young actors across Africa.
Fashion designer and entrepreneur Ineeleng Kavindama shared a light-hearted clip of Chweneyagae speaking in Setswana. With a broad grin, he joked, “Waitse ko Botswana ba bitsa bridge bare flyover.” It was a simple moment that made many smile through their tears and revealed how much he treasured the time he spent in Botswana.
Chweneyagae first rose to international acclaim with his leading role in Tsotsi (2005), which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His portrayal of an orphaned gang leader was both haunting and deeply moving. In the years that followed, he became a fan-favourite on television, especially in The River and its spin-off, Cobrizi.
Though his career spanned just two decades, Chweneyagae’s impact will remain long after his passing. He brought complex, authentic characters to life, formed meaningful bonds with Botswana’s creative community, and worked tirelessly to uplift African storytelling. As Batswana continue to share memories and tributes, one thing is clear: Presley Chweneyagae gave the screen his all and called Botswana home in the most heartfelt way.
