Edwin “Mzoli” Ngcawuzela, the founder of the iconic Gugulethu braai destination Mzoli’s, has died.
Fondly known as Ta Mzo, died at the age of 72 on Sunday, following a long illness.
He has been recognised as the pioneer of township entrepreneurship, having turned Mzoli’s from a butchery started in 2003, to an internationally recognised tshisanyama.
The provincial MEC for Cultural Affairs, Ricardo Mackenzie, is among many to pay tribute to Ta Mzo for building Mzoli’s legacy.
“From selling meat from his garage in Gugulethu, Mzoli built Mzoli’s Meat into a world-famous shisa nyama destination. He didn’t just sell braai, he created an experience,” said Mackenzie.
Mackenzie thanked Ngcawuzela for his contributions, praising him for putting “Gugulethu on the global map”.
“He created jobs, inspired young entrepreneurs, and proved that township businesses can be engines of real economic growth and pride. Thank you, Ta Mzo, for opening your doors, sharing your vision, and turning braai into diplomacy. You built more than a restaurant — you built a movement and a legacy that will live on in every plate shared and every tourist who came to experience authentic township vibes.”
The ANC Dullah Omar Region also paid tribute to the businessman, extending its “deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the people of Gugulethu”.
“His legacy is one of innovation, empowerment, and community upliftment. The ANC remains committed to advancing the spirit of local economic development that he championed by advocating for continued investment in township entrepreneurship. We salute a true giant of Gugulethu and South Africa… Your impact will live on for generations.”
Beyond business, Ngcawuzela is also remembered for his contribution to non-racial sport. Athletics Clipboard said he championed the values of non-racialism through his involvement with the Gugulethu Amateur Athletic Club and broader non-racial sporting structures.
“Mzoli was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve in the same way with which he competed – he ran with heart. He left it all out on and off the track, leaving us with lifelong values and principles.”
