The family of Esther Mathenjwa (45), who drowned in a stream in this township, will receive a three-bedroom house donated by the Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu. This was confirmed by the City of Mbombela’s executive mayor, Cllr Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, after visiting the family on Saturday, January 17.

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Mathenjwa was swept away on Wednesday evening, January 14, while attempting to cross the stream on her way home from work. Her body was recovered the following day and she was laid to rest on Tuesday, January 20.

She was the family’s breadwinner, supporting her husband, Anthony Morgan, who previously suffered a stroke. Makushe-Mazibuko said the family’s living conditions prompted the intervention.

“They stayed in a one-room house with four children. After seeing the situation, we decided to assist,” she said.

“The contractor has visited the family and construction will begin after the funeral. We aim to have the house completed within the next two months.”

She added that the City helped with funeral arrangements and that various provincial departments, including disaster management, have provided temporary relief. Morgan expressed his grief and gratitude.

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“If I could see my wife again, I would thank her for everything she did for our family. She worked hard and provided for us after my stroke. She did so much for us and she died while coming home,” he said.

The minister for co-operative governance and traditional affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, Ndlovu, and several other officials, also visited the family.