"He was still too young to die; but greedy death has swallowed him," cried one of the mourners during the funeral service of Chief Nngadzimeni Edward Sundani, who died a fortnight ago, after a long illnesses.

The chief, who was born in the early 1950s, was buried last Friday at Tshakhuma cemetery. Thousands of mourners from different walks of life came together to pay their last respect to the chief.

According to sources close to the family, the chief had been in and out of the hospital battling poor health since late last year. "Unfortunately, he lost it while we still loved and needed him the most," said his aunt, Mrs Emily Mutshena.

Speaker after speaker praised him for his unselfish generosity and kindness; he was praised for his successful leadership since he took over as chief 25 years ago.

The community development worker, who is also the chairperson of Ritavi Youth League of the ANC, Mr Edward Ngoveni, said that the young people had lost a good adviser who was a role model and a honey-guider to the community.

His statement was emphasized by the former ward councillor who is currently the general secretary of the Makhado sub-region executive, Mr David Muthavhatsindi. He urged the people of Ha-Sundani to unite and work together in order to build a good relationship with the government to enable service delivery.

The councillor described Chief Sundani as a fallen hero who was full of vision. He said that the chief was involved in a number of developmental projects in his community. By no way shall his mentality not be counted among the African intellectuals of our time. "As we remember him, let us not mourn his departure but let’s forever celebrate the legacy that he has left behind," said the councilor.

Mr Mahada, representing the Office of the Premier, said that the office was still shocked by the death of Chief Sundani. He said that the death of hardworking people who are committed to work for their communities 24 hours is unbearable. He further urged villagers to unite and work together for the good and the benefit of the community.

Vha-Musanda vho-Ramaligela from Davhani Tribal Authority said Chief Sundani was a determined and a faithful leader who had a stronger passion for development. "It will surely be a great challenge to fill the void that that has been opened through the death of Chief Sundani, as there are few people of his caliber," he said.

Chief Sundani is survived by his wife, his mother, seven children, two sisters and two brothers.