Two young pupils from the Matitivhala Primary School, Phindulo Tshisimba (6) and Shonisani Magwalu (5), were buried during an emotional funeral at Tshikwarani on Saturday.

The two youngsters died last week under unknown circumstances. At the time of our going to press, it was not yet known what had caused their deaths. Post mortem examinations were conducted, and the results will be made known soon.

The mourners wept openly during the funeral, while many learners fainted. Addressing the mourners, the acting mayor of the Makhado Municipality, Cllr Norman Mabila, described the two youngsters as brave young soldiers. "We only have to accept it, because we cannot change the situation. The deaths of these young ones are synonymous with a flowering tree that loses flowers that were expected to turn into fruits," Mabila added.

He said the municipality was forced to come on board to make sure that the kids were buried with dignity and respect. "Their deaths have touched our hearts and we united with the family and other stakeholders to make sure that the kids received a dignified burial."

The principal, Ms Jenifer Ramovha, said the deaths of the two pupils had left many scholars traumatised and it would take a long time and specialised counseling for them to recover fully.