MALALANE – A mass funeral was held at Naas Community Hall this past Sunday for the four Nkomazi FM employees who died last Wednesday in a horrific road accident. After the service, each family buried its own member at its chosen location.
The death of the four employees came as a shock to many in the community and attracted many to the funeral.
According to the spokesman for community safety, security and liaison Mr Joseph Mabuza, an accident between two vans near Malalane resulted in a chain reaction involving four vehicles. One of the drivers is still in a critical condition at Mediclinic Nelspruit.
“It is reported that a light-delivery vehicle travelling from Schoemansdal towards Malalane crashed into the back of another van before veering into the opposite lane where it collided with a Toyota Conquest hatchback, causing it to overturn. A Toyota Camry subsequently crashed into the overturned van. Four people, all occupants of the Conquest, died on the scene and two seriously injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital. The police are investigating four cases of culpable homicide,” said Mabuza.
Nkomazi presenters Themba Mabunda and Thembinkosi (Chief) Nkuna, along with the station’s technical and production manager, Thabiso (Mchikzo) Nkosi, and administration manager, Sabelo (Bhut’Sabz) Lekhuleni were killed.
The MEC for safety and security, Mr Vusi Shongwe and Nkomazi Local Municipality extended their condolences to the families and regarded their death as a loss to the whole media fraternity.
“As the Nkomazi Municipality, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to all the families who have been affected by this tragic accident and untimely death of their loved ones. Those who died were actively involved in the development and running of the local radio station. As a municipality, we are furthermore devastated by the loss of such talented individuals,” said Mr Cyril Ripinga.
Locals fans have been posting their condolences on the station’s official Facebook page.
Ms Portia Zitha said, “Nkomazi mourns again… this is too sad! “Farewell, young brothers! May your humble souls be at peace.”
Spokesman for Nkomazi FM, Ms Sandra Storm said, “The board of directors and executive management are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of four of their members, Thabiso Given Nkosi, Sabela Cypriam Lukhuleni, Themba France Mabunda and Thembinkosi Given Nkuna.
“These young men were talented and in the prime of their lives, activating and empowering the youth of Nkomazi. We call on the MEC for transport to prioritise road safety in this area.
“Too often lives are lost here and our community should not have to lose any more of its members on this stretch. We mourn this tremendous loss. “The valuable contribution they made in promoting the broadcasting platform for the community will never be forgotten. May their souls rest in peace,”
