VANDERBIJLPARK – Hundreds of mourners gathered in two long marquee tents filing Albertyn Street, and some braved the scorching sun to honor their comrade.

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Different dignitaries from the African National Congress, Media personnel, and local political heads graced the dignified funeral of MaRadebe.

MaRadebe passed on, in the early morning hours of Friday, March 10, at Vereeniging Mediclinic.

Besides being known for her political contribution during the apartheid regime, Sibongile is also the mother to the popular ANC’s Sedibeng Regional Treasure Mkhonto Radebe.

While many spoke highly of the deceased [MaRadebe], many speakers said the staunch ANC-mama left a void in the hearts of many, especially her family.

Speaking at MaRadebe’s funeral, National Executive Committee (NEC) Member Dickson Masemola said “It is with a heavy heart from the NEC through my presence to pass our words of comfort and support to the family as they face this bereavement. It’s a very difficult moment for them [family] and all of us to come and pay tribute and honor a well-lived life.

“We are here because this family is part of our history and you can never write the history of ANC and complete it without including the Radebe family. Mkhonto and the family, remain strong and God will be with you,” said

The Peoples Poet, Mzwakhe Mbuli recited a poem during the proceedings.

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Mbuli told mourners that he last spoke to MaRadebe during her birthday.

“I last spoke to gogo on her birthday, little did I know I was speaking to her for the last time. Be comforted, and I pray the Lord Almighty will heal your wounds. It’s very difficult for me to come up with words to comfort mourners during such times,” he said.

Maria Radebe, granddaughter to MaRadebe, shared a moving tribute for her ‘bestie’ grandmother.

“You lay here in front of me and you just reminded me that I lost my mother when I was six. You filled a void till this day no one can fill. I pray to God to give me strength because I am too weak to handle your death. You played a huge role in my life. You raised imbokodo, a respectful and carrying young woman,” she said.

Maria shared her moments with her gogo, who always supported her.

“uGogo was so supportive, so much that she would stay up all night while I was studying just to keep me company. Wangishiya ntombo, who else will do that for me now? We will always miss you and no one will fill the position you stood so well in,” she said.