Mpho Mbedzi buried at Mashamba

Hundreds of people gathered at Mashamba village on Saturday to pay their last respects to Ms Mpho Mbedzi (31), a former Biotechnologist at Baragwanath Hospital. She died about two months ago, when a guest house of the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Nigeria collapsed.

The tragedy claimed the lives of 116 people, including 85 from South Africa. The remains of 74 victims were brought back to South Africa a fortnight ago and the eight Vhembe-based victims were buried at different places on Saturday. Mbedzi was buried at the Mashamba graveyard.

Although the atmosphere was subdued, the ceremony resembled a celebration of a life well lived and everybody stated that Mbedzi had fully dedicated her life to the Lord.

During the funeral ceremony, her brother, Mr Andrew Mbedzi, described his sister as a pioneer, a born leader and woman of a vision. He said the whole community gathered with heavy hearts, because Mpho was very influential in the area.

He thanked the South African government, the Synagogue Church of All Nation and the Makhado municipality for their contributions during the difficult time. He also stated that although his sister had died unexpectedly, the members of the congregation consoled themselves, because they knew that his sister had worked tirelessly for the Lord until her last day. “We know she is enjoying her new life in the hands of the Almighty. We would also like to thank God for giving us this wonderful gift.”

The mayor of the Makhado municipality, Cllr David Mutavhatsindi, said he was saddened by the accident. “Her passing will undoubtedly leave a void too difficult to fill,” he said.

News - Date: 28 November 2014

Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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