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Eugene Khumbanyiwa is a Malawian actor based in South Africa, known for his work on stage, television, film, and as a voice actor. He gained widespread recognition for his role as 'Obesandjo' in the 2009 Oscar-nominated sci-fi film 'District 9.'
Born at Cobbe Barracks Hospital in Zomba, the former capital of Malawi, Khumbanyiwa is the son of Major Stewart Khumbanyiwa, a retired soldier, and a mother who is a retired primary school teacher. Before pursuing acting, he relocated to South Africa and worked as an IT specialist, following his childhood ambition to become a professional actor.
Khumbanyiwa began his acting career humbly, appearing as an extra in the 2004 Oscar-nominated film 'Hotel Rwanda,' starring Don Cheadle and Sophie Okonedo, where he played a hotel staff member. He then took on various roles, appearing in TV commercials and popular prime-time soap operas such as 'Generations' and 'Scandal.' He also acted in the South African independent film 'Jerusalema (Gangster's Paradise)' before securing the role of an underground warlord in 'District 9,' directed by Neill Blomkamp and produced by Peter Jackson. Following the critical acclaim he received for 'District 9,' he featured in an American TV commercial for a well-known security product.
Khumbanyiwa went on to appear in Hollywood films including 'Death Race 3,' alongside Danny Trejo and Luke Goss, and 'Chappie,' which starred Sharlto Copley, Hugh Jackman, Dev Patel, and Sigourney Weaver. He reunited with Sigourney Weaver in a lead role in the short film 'Rakka.' He has appeared in three films directed by Neill Blomkamp.
With over 25 screen acting credits to his name, Khumbanyiwa continues to advance his career, aiming to make Africa proud in the film industry.
On July 9, 2016, he received the Best Achiever in Entertainment award at the Malawi Achievers Awards in South Africa.
