Ekurhuleni MMC among four killed in Mozambique flood disaster
The news of the passing of Mngwevu and his companions emerged after days of search and rescue operations conducted by the South African Defence Force in collaboration with their Mozambican counterparts.
City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) Mayor Doctor Xhakaza has expressed shock and deep sadness following the untimely passing of the MMC for Roads and Transport Planning, Andile Mngwevu, and his companions, who lost their lives after the vehicle they were travelling in was swept away by floods in Chókwè, Mozambique.
Mngwevu was travelling with four companions when the disaster struck. One of his companions reportedly managed to escape from the vehicle, while Mngwevu and the three others were later found dead. Authorities have not yet identified the three deceased and the survivor, who are all from Kwa-Thema.
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The news of the passing of Mngwevu and his companions emerged on January 27 after days of search and rescue operations conducted by the South African Defence Force in collaboration with their Mozambican counterparts.
Mngwevu, who also served as the leader of government business in the city, has been described as a committed and dedicated public servant who devoted his life to improving mobility, infrastructure development and service delivery for Ekurhuleni residents.
“His passing is a loss to the city, the council, and the community,” said Xhakaza.
“He was a critical member of the mayoral committee that paid attention to detail and ensured that the interests of Ekurhuleni residents were always prioritised.”
On behalf of the city’s leadership, the mayor extended heartfelt condolences to the Mngwevu family, friends, colleagues, and all those affected by this tragic loss.
“We stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and mourn the loss of a dedicated leader whose contribution to public service will forever be remembered,” he said.
Xhakaza also conveyed condolences to the families of the three other individuals who were travelling with Mngwevu at the time of the incident.
On January 27, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Xhakaza, accompanied by MMC for Finance Jongizizwe Dlabathi, visited the families of the deceased to offer their condolences and pay their last respects.
The City of Ekurhuleni further extended its sympathies to the people of Mozambique affected by the recent floods and joined them in mourning the lives lost as a result of this tragedy.
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