Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Michael Usi on Tuesday led thousands of Malawians in paying last respect to one of the country’s celebrated stage play actor and comedian Eric Mabedi.

The funeral ceremony started with a mass at St. Montfort Catholic Institute (CI) Parish in Blantyre and the service was led by Reverend Father Maere.

In his eulogy, Usi said the country has lost an icon who worked so hard to help in the development of the country. Jakobo’s acting career spanned over 30 years.

In his remarks, Charles Mphoka a member of Kwathu Drama Group said the group will miss the services of its leader.

In the early 1980, the late Charles Severe founded Kwathu Drama Group.

The late Eric Mabedi or Jakobo as he was fondly known amongst the country’s arts followers and late John Nyanga were the first people Severe took as members of the drama group.

Other actors who joined Kwathu Drama Group included Bon Kalindo also known as Winiko in Arts circles.

His family has since described the late Eric Mabedi as a man who always wanted the best for his kinsmen.

Eric Mabedi was also one of the duo comedians in Izeki and Jakobo.
He is survived by a wife and two children.