Family of four killed in N1 crash
A Limpopo family of four dies in a devastating Easter road crash, leaving the Malamulele community in mourning.
LIMPOPO – A sombre mood prevailed as the Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba joined the Xikundu community outside Malamulele on Saturday for the mass funeral of four members of the Maswanganyi family who died in a vehicle collision over the Easter period.
Collins Maswanganyi (46), his wife Tintswalo (41) and their children, Kuhlula (19) and Katekani (4), lost their lives in a crash on the N1 near Mookgophong on April 1.
They were travelling with their neighbour, Extra Tlukani, who was laid to rest earlier in the week in the same village.
Illegal U-turn suspected in deadly collision
Preliminary reports indicate that another driver made a U-turn on the highway which resulted in a head-on collision.
Authorities have repeatedly warned motorists against dangerous behaviour such as illegal U-turns, speeding and fatigue.
Government offers support to grieving families
Provincial Government has extended condolences to the bereaved families and continues to provide psychosocial support.
The premier was accompanied by the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, MEC for Social Development Dr Florence Radzilani, and Collins Chabane Mayor Shadrack Maluleke.
Premier calls for safer roads and responsible driving
Delivering the eulogy, Ramathuba urged the community to honour the deceased by valuing life and promoting safer roads.
“Let us honour them by choosing life, protecting one another and building a society where such tragedies become fewer.
“May their memory remain a light in our hearts,” she said.
Community in shock after devastating loss
She described the tragedy as a devastating loss that has left the community in shock and grief.
“We gather not only in mourning, but in disbelief, as this catastrophe leaves an irreplaceable void in the family and the community,” she said.
Tributes paid to devoted family
Ramathuba paid tribute to Collins Maswanganyi as a devoted family man and provider, while describing his wife as the heart of the home.
She said their children represented hope for the future, making the loss even more painful.
Warning against reckless driving
She also warned that reckless driving – including speeding, unsafe overtaking, driving under the influence and fatigue – continues to claim lives on South Africa’s roads, urging motorists to act responsibly.
