Thovhele Vho-Philimon Nesengani (61), a senior traditional leader of Nesengani, died on Saturday at Elim Hospital after a long period of illness.

Vho-Toni Mphephu Ramabulana, king of the Vhavenda, described Nesengani’s death as a huge shock. “He still had a lot to do, both for the community and royal family,” he said, adding that it would be very difficult to replace him. Mphephu said that the late Nesengani had worked very closely with him and the many chiefs under him. “He was such an experienced traditional leader and we expected him to assist in training the new chiefs,” he added

According to Ramabulana, Nesengani was a great leader. “He was always willing and ready to learn, which made him judge cases in a fair manner. At the time of his death, we were finalizing a deal with one of the cell phone companies with a view to having a tower here that would help improve the reception,” he said.

The MEC for Coghsta, Makoma Makhurupetje, expressed her condolences to the Nesengani family. She said Nesengani had served the country with diligence. “He will be remembered for his hard work,” said Makhurupetje.

Makhado Mayor Cllr David Mutavhatsindi expressed his heartfelt condolences and support to the Nesengani Royal Family. He said that Nesengani had contributed to shaping the local government system. “He was a selfless, visionary and dedicated leader of all people,” he said. He also mentioned that “Nesengani was a leader who understood that, as a traditional leader, one must transcend all boundaries and represent the hopes, interests and aspirations of all people to realize a better life.”

Family member Mr Nelson Davhula said they would remember the late chief as a hardworking person who unified the family and had a vision to develop his people. “Through him, a lot of development has taken place here,” he said.

Nesengani was buried at Tshiendeulu, but a formal funeral service will be held on Saturday at the Tshino Kolokoshani grounds, starting at 09:00.