Prominent KZN agricultural leader killed during armed robbery

A leading advocate for black farmers in KZN has been shot dead during an armed robbery in the Mbutshana area.

7 hours ago
Chris Ndaliso 1 minute read
Mbongeni Skhakhane and Mayor Chris Pappas. Photo: Chris Pappas/Facebook

The KZN chairperson of the African Farmers Association of SA (Afasa) and businessman Mbongeni Skhakhane was shot dead during an armed robbery in the Mbutshana area, Hilton, yesterday.

Details on the incident were not immediately available, but The Witness understands, through a police source, that Skhakhane’s vehicle was found abandoned in the Ezibomvini area towards kwaShange.

Advocate for black farmers

Skhakhane was a prominent leader advocating for black farmers, particularly on issues of stock theft, promoting agricultural development and engaging with government on farming policies.

He was reportedly involved in discussions around cannabis cultivation and ensuring a functioning animal identification system for livestock.

Political reaction

uMngeni Mayor Chris Pappas said Skhakhane was a pillar of strength in the farming community, a mentor to emerging farmers, and a champion for rural development across the province.

“His dedication to empowering farmers and building inclusive growth in the agricultural sector made him a respected and admired figure. His loss is a devastating blow to his family, Afasa, the agricultural sector, and all South Africans who benefitted from his leadership,” said Pappas.

He called on police to ensure a thorough and urgent investigation so that those responsible are arrested and face the law.

“This senseless act is yet another reminder of the unacceptable levels of violent crime in South Africa. Farmers, business owners and community leaders continue to live under threat simply for contributing to society and driving local economic development. Government at all levels must prioritise safety and protection for those who feed, employ and build our nation. As the uMngeni Municipality, we stand in solidarity with Afasa and the wider agricultural community.

“We will continue to advocate for the safety of all residents and support those who dedicate their lives to developing our rural economy. May Skhakhane’s legacy of service, leadership and empowerment continue to inspire us,” he said.

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7 hours ago
Chris Ndaliso 1 minute read

Chris Ndaliso

Chris Ndaliso holds a Bachelor of Social Science (BSoc Sc) degree in Communication from the University of Fort Hare, graduating in 2003. That same year, he began his journalism career as an intern at the Daily Dispatch in East London. Driven by a passion for holding power to account, he has built a career focused on reporting and exposing injustice, including corruption, nepotism, and abuse of authority. After spending about two years at the Daily Dispatch, Chris relocated to KwaZulu-Natal, where he spent four years reporting for the Ladysmith Gazette, a community publication under the Caxton group. He later joined The Witness in Pietermaritzburg, based on Willowton Road, where he worked as a reporter and later as a senior reporter. During his time in this role, he also occasionally stepped in as acting deputy news editor. Chris then moved to Durban to join The Daily News as a senior reporter, eventually advancing to the position of chief reporter. In 2021, he rejoined the Daily Dispatch as a senior reporter, continuing his commitment to journalism that challenges those in power and serves the public interest. He rejoined The Witness as a senior reporter in January 2022.
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