Beloved businessperson and philanthropist dies at age 64

Mourners from near and far gathered to pay tribute to the late David Henry Benzana (64) of Rigamani Construction, honouring his legacy and significant contributions to the community.

David was born on November 2, 1960 and passed away on September 4, due to an undisclosed illness. He was mostly known as Oupa or Bra Oupa by the community. He was the second of five children. His career journey began when he joined Norse Construction, and his lifelong passion for building started. In 1998, he founded Rigamani Construction and became one of the few black entrepreneurs to establish a company that secured government and parastatal contracts.

His memorial service was held at St Mary Catholic Church on September 13, whereafter he was laid to rest at the Sterkfontein Cemetery next to one of South Africa’s iconic soccer players, Patrick Ace Ntsoengoe.

Those who stood on the podium did not lack the words to express the love David had for helping those in need. Among the mourners who shared their loss was former Gauteng Premier and former Minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane. She described him as a brother who became family.

“He played such an important role in shaping so many people’s lives. I grew up knowing him, and he just so happened to become a part of the family. I want to embrace what God has given us through him,” she expressed.

Family member Morake Mosito said David worked for the nation by helping countless families and playing a role in uplifting the South African economy.

David’s wife, Dineo Benzana, explained he was a king who made her a queen.

“He had a soft spot for the Kaiser Chiefs football team. He was admired for his stance against teen drug abuse, and he also opened a car wash business to help former drug abusers in Mohlakeng,” she told the Randfontein Herald.

He is survived by his wife, two sisters, seven children, eight grandchildren and 11 nieces and nephews.