City of Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Alderman Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has expressed shock and deep sadness following the passing of Councillor Andile Mngwevu, the MMC for Roads and Transport Planning.

Mngwevu tragically lost his life after the vehicle he was travelling in was swept away by floodwaters in Chókwè, Mozambique.

According to Xhakaza, his passing was confirmed on January 27, following several days of search efforts.

The City of Ekurhuleni confirmed on January 17 that Mngwevu was missing after the incident, stating that he had been travelling in a vehicle that was swept away by floodwaters.

At the time, the city said search and verification efforts were underway through official diplomatic and security channels, including coordination with South African and Mozambican authorities.

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The city further mentioned that a South African rescue mission had been deployed to Mozambique and that contact had been established with one of the five occupants who were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

The whereabouts of Mngwevu and the other occupants remained unconfirmed until his passing on January 27.

Xhakaza described Mngwevu as a committed public servant who dedicated his life to improving mobility, infrastructure development and service delivery for the people of Ekurhuleni.

“Councillor Mngwevu was a committed public servant who dedicated his life to improving mobility, infrastructure development, and service delivery for the people he served.

“His passing is a profound loss to the city, the Council, and the broader community,” said Xhakaza.

He added that Mngwevu was a critical member of the mayoral committee who paid close attention to detail and ensured that the interests of Ekurhuleni residents were prioritised.

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On behalf of the city’s leadership, Xhakaza extended heartfelt condolences to the Mngwevu family, friends and colleagues.

“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,” Xhakaza said.

Xhakaza also conveyed condolences to the families of the three other individuals who were travelling with Cllr Mngwevu at the time of the incident.

On January 27, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Xhakaza and the MMC for Finance visited the families of those who lost their lives to offer condolences and pay their respects.

The city further expressed its sympathies to the people of Mozambique who have been affected by the recent floods and joined them in mourning the lives lost as a result of the tragedy.