Who Is Nǃxau ǂToma? Age, Biography and Wiki
Nǃxau ǂToma, born on December 16, 1944, would be 81 years old in 2025. He was a Namibian farmer and actor known for his role in the critically acclaimed films "The Gods Must Be Crazy" and its sequel. Despite his transition from the rural life of farming to international fame, Nǃxau maintained his humility and connection to his heritage. His unique storytelling gave audiences a glimpse into the life of the San people in Namibia.
| Occupation | Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 16, 1944 |
| Age | 58 Years |
| Birth Place | Tsumkwe, South West Africa, South Africa (present-day Namibia) |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | South Africa |
| Date of death | 5 July, 2003 |
| Died Place | Tsumkwe, Namibia |
Popularity
Nǃxau ǂToma's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Though specifics regarding Nǃxau ǂToma's height and weight are less documented, he was recognized for his distinctive physical appearance characterized by a lean build. In his prime, his body metrics reflected his active lifestyle as a farmer while also depicting his strong connection to his cultural roots.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Nǃxau ǂToma had a deep-rooted connection with his family. He was a father and husband, often referencing the importance of family values in his interviews. While details about his romantic relationships were rarely the focus of media, his commitment to his family was a significant aspect of his life.
He was found dead in late June 2003 near his home in Namibia after going out to collect wood and on an excursion to hunt guineafowl. He died from multiple-drug-resistant tuberculosis. According to official estimates, he was about 58 or 59 years old at the time. He was buried on 12 July in a semi-traditional ceremony at Tsumkwe, next to the grave of his second wife. He had six surviving children.
Net Worth and Salary
During his lifetime, Nǃxau ǂToma's net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, largely attributed to his acting career and the iconic status he achieved through his films. After the success of "The Gods Must Be Crazy," he engaged in various social projects that helped his community, demonstrating his commitment to giving back.
He spoke Juǀʼhoan, Otjiherero, and Tswana fluently, as well as some Afrikaans. He did not know his exact age, and before his appearance in the films he had little experience beyond his home.
He had only ever seen three white people before casting, and when director Jamie Uys gave him his first cash payment of $300 for The Gods Must Be Crazy, he allegedly let it blow away in the wind because he did not understand its value.
This was despite money already being a serious matter for other San since many of them depended on purchased food and government aid and/or had enlisted in the South African Army due to the high wages it paid. He was, however, able to negotiate for near several hundred thousand for his appearance in the sequel.
He came from a culture that did not value the material things that money could buy and consequently had not learned money management skills, although he used some of his income to build a brick house with running water and electricity for his family.
He also bought a used car and subsequently hired a chauffeur, as he had no desire to learn to drive.
Career, Business, and Investments
Nǃxau ǂToma's career skyrocketed following his role in "The Gods Must Be Crazy," which premiered in 1980. This unexpected fame led him to become one of Namibia’s most recognized figures. Beyond acting, Nǃxau remained committed to his roots as a farmer and engaged in local businesses aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of his community. His investments primarily centered around sustainable agriculture, reflecting his dedication to his heritage.
In addition to The Gods Must Be Crazy, Nǃxau starred in a series of sequels: The Gods Must Be Crazy II, Crazy Safari, Crazy Hong Kong and The Gods Must Be Funny in China.
After his film career ended, he returned to Namibia, where he farmed maize, pumpkins, and beans, and kept several head of cattle (but no more than 20 at a time because, according to The Independent, without the complex farming systems of the "modern world", he had trouble keeping track of more; the Namibian local daily New Era stated that he simply
could not count further than 20).
Social Network
Although Nǃxau ǂToma lived during a time when social media was not as prevalent, his legacy continues to resonate in the digital age. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, among others, commemorate his life and work, allowing fans and future generations to share and explore his contributions.
Education
While formal education details are sparse, Nǃxau ǂToma's life experiences served as the foundation of his wisdom and insights. He was known for his innate understanding of chemistry and nature, illustrating the rich knowledge passed down through generations in his community.
In conclusion, Nǃxau ǂToma remains an inspirational figure in Namibian culture and cinema. His compelling life story not only highlighted the beauty of indigenous culture but also left a lasting mark on global cinema. Though he passed away in 2003, his contributions continue to thrive in the memories of audiences worldwide.
