A vehicle accident on the N1 near Louis Trichardt on Friday, 28 March, claimed the life of one of the region's top legal minds, Adv Ronald Tshikororo (49).
News of his death spread rapidly. His niece, Cynthia Vhutshilo Tshikororo, confirmed his passing in a Facebook post. "His death has left a profound emptiness in our hearts, and we are struggling to come to terms with this sudden loss," she wrote.
She described him as not only a beloved family member but also a dedicated professional, friend, and pillar of support to many. "He touched so many lives, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him," she wrote.
Tributes poured in from many sectors of society after news of his passing became known. He was known as a passionate music enthusiast, particularly of African music, and had a collection of rare recordings from across the continent.
On Saturday, 29 March, legendary radio broadcaster Mpho Nefale dedicated part of the Phalaphala FM programme Devhula Ha Vhembe to honour Tshikororo. The tribute included an interview with family spokesperson Sammy Siaga.
The history of the legendary Tshivenda music group Adziambei Band would not be complete without mentioning Adv Ronnie Tshikororo's contributions. For ten years, the group had disbanded and nearly faded into obscurity. Tshikororo travelled to the mountainous Rammbuda area in search of them. Driven by his love of music, he revived the band and supported their comeback project, Shango lo Takala, which became a massive hit.
Adziambei Band leader Elias Maele Sirwali described Tshikororo's tragic death as a major loss to the band and the music fraternity. "For 10 full years, we could not release a new album, due to financial constraints. In fact, the band had disbanded, and then this man came out of nowhere and told us he wanted us to continue making great Tshivenda music. He paid for our studio fees out of his own pocket, and Shango lo Takala was born. That was the rebirth of our group, and we are still standing because of him. We have lost a great pillar of strength, and sadly, he passed away while we were preparing a gathering to thank him. We shall always remember his good deeds, and the best way to honour him would be to release an album in his memory," he said.
Born in Hamagidi on 22 June 1975, Tshikororo obtained his LLB degree from the University of Venda in 2001. He was admitted as an attorney in 2003 and worked for government departments in Limpopo and Mpumalanga before starting his career as an advocate in 2017. He was also a member of several legal organisations across the country.
A passionate music supporter, he collaborated with artists such as Colbert Mukwevho, Mangerengere, and Rendani of Cornerstone, among others.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, 4 April, at the Christ Worship Centre in Maniini, starting at 12:30. He will be buried on Saturday, 5 April.