Lizo Pemba

Lizo Pemba

Born in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth, Lizo Pemba is a respected South African visual artist whose life and work reflect the country’s turbulent history and rich artistic legacy. A third-generation artist, he learned watercolour techniques from his father, Titus Keke Pemba, and drew deep inspiration from his grandfather, the celebrated Dr. George Pemba. From an early age, Lizo used drawing and cartooning as creative outlets during South Africa’s political unrest. 

His journey took a dramatic turn when he joined Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK), the ANC’s military wing, contributing graphic art, posters, and cartoons in exile in Angola and Luanda. He was later sent to Zimbabwe for formal fine art training and returned to South Africa in 1991. In 1992, he enrolled at the University of Fort Hare, earning a BA in Fine Arts, excelling in painting under Professor Mike Halier. 

About the Artwork
Pemba’s art is deeply rooted in political history, personal sacrifice, and cultural heritage. With a background in cartooning, graphic art, and painting, his work serves as a poignant visual archive of South Africa’s journey to democracy—infused with memory, resistance, and resilience.