Mourners from around the province and further afield gathered at Madabani at the house of the late Vhamusanda- Vho-Mavhungu Ramabulana on Saturday to pay him their last respects. He was later buried at the Ravele cemetery.

Vhamusanda Ramabulana passed away at his home on 9 August, after a short illness.

During the ceremony, Khosi Vho-Rudzani Sinthumule said that the deceased had been a soldier for the bigger part of his life and epitomised the best that came from the traditional leadership.

“He was one of those men who fought for development in the prime of his life and excelled at everything he did. He will be remembered for his dedication and commitment to the leadership,” he added. “His death will undoubtedly leave a void too difficult to fill, not only in the family, but also in our community as whole.".

Sinthumule said that although the family, friends and community accepted what had happened, it would be difficult to forget that this death had robbed the community of an energetic leader who was full of zeal and courage.

The mayor of the Makhado municipality, Cllr David Mutavhatsindi, described the death of Vhamusanda Ramabulana as a big loss to the family, community and municipality. "This man was one of a kind, an unique person who was always ready to help any member of his family, community and whoever came to him for help. We have lost a great leader," he said.

Mutavhatsindi said the deceased had played a uniting role as chief and they all looked upon him as exemplary.