Businessman killed in crash
Best known as Koko (56), he was well known for his involvement in the taxi industry and his driving school.
Tragedy struck last Sunday evening (7th) when popular South Coast businessman and beloved community inspiration, Cromwell ‘Koko’ Zithumane (56) of Oslo Beach and Murchison, died in a car accident near Umgababa.
It’s believed he was involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle at about 7pm.
Koko had been on a business trip to Richards Bay last Sunday and was travelling back home when the accident occurred.
According to police reports, he lost control of the vehicle, which careered across the centre median, and crashed into an oncoming vehicle.
The reasons for this have not been confirmed as of yet and will form part of a standard police investigation.
Detective Warrant Officer Sbu Dlamini confirmed that a case of culpable homicide had been opened at Umkomaas police station.
The driver of the other vehicle survived the crash but was taken to hospital. Sadly, Koko was declared dead on the scene.
Best known as Koko (56), he was well known for his involvement in the taxi industry and his driving school.
Described as a pillar of the Murchison community in particular, he leaves behind a trailblazing legacy.
His son Banele (23) said it had been extremely difficult for the family and heart-breaking for the greater community as well.
“We have all taken a big knock. My father was like a chief to many within our community. He was heavily involved in many aspects and willing to help at any given time in Murchison.”
Koko was born in Murchison on December 13, but his family was originally from Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape.
They moved back to Flagstaff when he was two years old, and he lived there until the age of eight, before moving back to the South Coast.
Later, he established himself as a businessman of note and a prominent figure in the community.
Outside of business, he particularly loved golf, playing often at local courses, as well as being part of Southern Natal Nomads.
“My father has left an unbelievably huge legacy. If I could compare it using football terms, he’s left a legacy comparable to (Argentinian superstar) Lionel Messi. It would be like trying to live up to and to better that.
It’s hard for anyone to ever reach that kind of level. He was in his own league,” Banele said.
A memorial service will be held in Kwa-Maveshe Community Hall today (11th) at 10am.
The funeral will take place at KwaMaveshe Sports Grounds this Sunday (14th).
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