CONDOLENCES have poured in for the first National Chair of the House of Traditional Leaders, Inkosi Mpiyezintombi Mzimela, who died after a short illness on Christmas Day.
It was reported that Mzimela was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and admitted to a Durban hospital.
His sudden passing has shocked the rural community, political and educational leaders.
He was the leader of the eManzimeleni clan in Mtunzini, an educator and Principal at Sbhakuza Secondary School.
He was appointed Chairperson of the National House of Traditional Leaders after 1994, and held several positions within the traditional and educational fraternities.
He was also a senior Inkandla Freedom Party (IFP) leader, and a former Chairperson of the Provincial legislature.
KZN Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube paid tribute to Mzimela, describing him as a man of integrity.
‘Inkosi Mzimela was instrumental in the post-apartheid development of the institution of traditional leadership and in the establishment of its structures.
‘He served the institution with great distinction in many leadership positions. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the rest of the family, the institution of traditional leaders and the entire community he was serving,’ said Dube.
Villagers, politicians and other community leaders have been among those who have visited the Mzimela home to offer their condolences. They described Mzimela as a true leader who fought for tradition and education.
Speaking to the Zululand Observer on Monday, uThungulu District Education Department Director David Chonco said his passing will leave a big void in the Education Department.
‘He was a true leader who fought for education, safety and peace in schools. His school produced great matric results every year because he always put education first. He played a significant role in fighting drugs in schools,’ said Chonco.
Inkosi Mzimela will be laid to rest on Sunday.
