Soweto Gold Beer Founder Ndumiso Madlala
Soweto Gold Beer Founder Ndumiso Madlala Dies at 49 After Battle with Liver Failure. Well-known entrepreneur and founder of the popular Soweto Gold Beer, Ndumiso Madlala has died from liver failure.
Pioneering Businessman Succumbs to Illness
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 media, 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 had 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.
Madlala’s Groundbreaking Journey in Brewing
Madlala’s story is one of innovation and resilience. Born in KwaZulu-Natal, he pursued chemical engineering at the University of Natal (now part of the University of KwaZulu-Natal), where he honed his skills in science and problem-solving. His master’s degree in the Netherlands further equipped him with advanced knowledge in process engineering, which he later applied to brewing.
Returning home, Madlala saw an opportunity in the craft beer market, which was dominated by large corporations. In 2013, he founded Soweto Gold in Soweto, Johannesburg, making it the country’s first black-owned craft beer brewed in a township. The brand quickly gained popularity for its unique flavours inspired by local culture, such as the golden lager that paid homage to Soweto’s vibrant history.
Soweto Gold not only challenged the status quo but also created jobs in the community, employing locals in production and distribution. Madlala expanded the business to include other beverages under Eyethu Beverages, where he served as CEO. His ventures extended beyond beer, starting businesses in his hometown that focused on job creation and housing for the needy, embodying his belief in giving back.
For someone unfamiliar with South Africa’s craft beer scene, Madlala’s work helped democratise an industry often seen as elite. By basing operations in Soweto, he brought economic activity to the township, inspiring other entrepreneurs to invest locally. His beers won awards, including Best Craft Beer in SA in 2014 by the League of Beers, boosting the brand’s profile.
Tributes Highlight Madlala’s Lasting Impact
Tributes have poured in from across the country, honouring Madlala as a trailblazer who empowered township communities. Business peers described him as a mentor who encouraged innovation and ethical practices. One associate recalled how Madlala’s energy was “contagious,” always pushing for projects that uplifted others.
The wider fraternity mourns a man whose legacy extends to education and development. Social media is filled with messages of condolence, with many sharing stories of how Soweto Gold became a symbol of black excellence in business. “His passion for education and development will live on,” Phakama noted, reflecting the sentiment of many.
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