Comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane Passes Away at 31 After Battling Depression

Family Confirms Long Struggle with Mental Health
Johannesburg – The South African entertainment industry is mourning the loss of well-known comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane, who passed away at the age of 31. His family confirmed that he had been battling depression for years before his untimely death on Friday.

Dibakwane was celebrated for his unconventional humor and unique approach to stand-up comedy, which won him a dedicated fan base. Despite his ability to make audiences laugh, he privately struggled with melancholy. According to an official statement from his family on Tuesday, initial evidence suggests that he died by suicide.

A Rising Star in the Comedy Industry
Dibakwane’s talent was widely recognized within the comedy industry. He first gained national attention after winning the Savanna Comics’ Choice Newcomer of the Year Award, a prestigious honor that spotlighted emerging talent in South African comedy.

His career continued to flourish, earning him another major accolade—the Savanna Comics’ Choice Intermediate Comedian of the Year Award—further cementing his reputation as a rising star. Additionally, he received two more nominations for the Comics’ Choice Awards, demonstrating the high regard in which he was held by both his peers and fans.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Dibakwane’s funeral is scheduled to take place in Mbombela on Friday, where family, friends, and fans will gather to say their final goodbyes. A memorial service will also be held at the Bioscope on Wednesday to honor his life and contributions to the entertainment industry.

His passing serves as a somber reminder of the challenges many artists face behind the scenes, despite their public personas. His family and friends hope that his story will encourage open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking support.

A Lasting Legacy
Ebenhaezer Dibakwane leaves behind a legacy of laughter, talent, and a career that, though cut short, had a profound impact on the South African comedy scene. He will be remembered not only for his comedic brilliance but also for his courage in facing his struggles.

Rest in peace, Ebenhaezer Dibakwane.