Madimbo village almost came to a standstill when politicians, worshippers, traditional leaders, health workers and local villagers came in large numbers to pay tribute to Ms Mashudu Constance Nethavhani (48), who was buried on Sunday.

A professional nurse, who was loved by almost everyone in the village, Nethavhani was also a former councillor for Ward 1 of the Musina Municipality. A staunch member of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), Nethavhani died last week after falling ill.

The current ward councillor, Mr Fistos Mafela acknowledged that Nethavhani laid a good foundation for him when he took over four years ago. All the speakers recognized the good work that Nethavhani did for the community both as a politician and a health worker at Madimbo clinic.

Musina Mayor, Cllr Mihloti Muhlope said Nethavhani will always be remembered for being the driver of changes within the communities she lived. “She was a good servant of the people and losing her is a terrible blow for all of us. All we have to do is to give full support to the family to make sure that their loved one is given a dignified send-off. We are really very saddened by her untimely departure. The family has already suffered enough pain and we should always be there to comfort them.”

She added that instead of constantly shedding tears, “we must also go down the memory lane and remember the good things that Nethavhani did for this community while she was still alive. Musina Municipality and Madimbo clinic are what they are now because of contributions by people like her. She will always be remembered for putting people first.”

Speakers at the emotional funeral included representatives from the Nethavhani family, ANC, friends, neighbours, Department of Health, Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa (DENOSA), ZCC, Madimbo Royal House and the South African National Civic Organization (SANCO).