Drowned river activist Nqubeni described as ‘gentle giant’ by colleagues
“Dumesani was always cautious when at the river, and he would use a stick to measure the depth of the ground beneath him.”
Hennops River activist Dumisane Ngubeni has been described as a “warrior” by his colleagues during a memorial service held over the weekend.
Founder and river activist Tarryn Johnston said Nqubeni’s passing had made them more cautious moving forward as it had taught them great lessons.
It is believed Ngubeni fell and drowned in the river. His body was found days later by his friend. At the time, it was reported that the men were searching for golf balls, which they would later sell to golf players on the nearby golf course.
“His passing ensures that we move forward with a greater sense of safety and a much more stringent protocol.
“Although he did not drown at work, we are upset about it happening. He was always cautious when at the river – using a stick to measure the depth of the ground beneath him before walking,” Johnston said.
She said Ngubeni could not swim, but he had lived on the river banks and survived many floods.
Therefore, it was difficult for the team to come to terms with his passing.
“We have done basic river safety training previously. I halted all our work until all team members in the water have life jackets. Everyone will be given swimming lessons too.
“If this could have happened to someone as strong and sensible as Dumisani, it can happen to anyone.”
Johnston said they will miss his gentleness, dedication and, most importantly, his compassion towards other people and his colleagues.
“Dumisani would not harm a soul. He always worked by himself and he was full of smiles and laughter. We have lost a gentle giant in him, but we will make sure that his memory lives on.”
Immediately after his body was discovered, police opened an inquest case. Ten days later his body was released from the mortuary and transported to his homeland in Limpopo where he was laid to rest.
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