One of Vhembe’s most progressive traditional leaders, who strove for development in his area, Chief Mphathele Takalani of Mukula, is no more.

Takalani (42), who worked for the South African Air Force, died last Thursday while on a job-related course in Polokwane. The cause of his death was not made public by the family.

The death of the much-loved chief, who had received an R18 million completed water project which he had initiated on behalf of his community, only a fortnight ago, has plunged the whole province into deep mourning. The news of his death spread like wildfire and condolences started pouring in from all corners of the country.

On Saturday, Limpopo MEC for Safety, Security and Liaison Ms Florence Radzilani and several other dignitaries, including the acting executive mayor of Vhembe, Cllr Lucas Manyuha, and Thulamela Mayor Cllr Grace Mahosi, visited the family to mourn with the family. They met the family, which was led by Mailausumbwa Kennedy Tshivhase. Vhakoma Vho Kenneth Takalani confirmed the passing away of the chief, saying the death came as a shock to them.

Tshivhase commended the late chief’s late farther, saying he was the one who fought tirelessly for him to ascend the throne amidst family squabbles. The Takalani family will also be remembered for the role they played in the struggle against apartheid, he added.