The councillor for Ward 9 of the Makhado Municipality, Kanukani Maphubu (41), passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, 9 January, at the Louis Trichardt Memorial Hospital. He was laid to rest at the Matshavhawe cemetery on Sunday.
Maphubu, who represented the ANC, was also a member of the municipality's executive committee and served as the Portfolio Head for Sport, Arts and Culture. Additionally, he was a member of the Pastors Forum and served on the Disaster Management Committee.
The MEC for Education, Mavhungu Lerule Ramakhanya, spoke at his funeral service, saying his death had come as a shock to everyone. "He left us at a time when we needed his insights the most," she said, adding that he should be honoured for the way he lived. She credited many of the developments in the region to Maphubu's efforts. "The government appreciates the sacrifice made by Maphubu's family, who allowed him to spend his time serving the community," said Ramakhanya.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms Takalani Maphubu described her husband as a good man and a loving person. "He laughed and joked with everyone and held no grudges against anybody. We will miss him dearly. He is truly irreplaceable, but God has done his will, and we must accept it."
Makhado Mayor Dorcas Mboyi described the late councillor as a reliable servant of the people who always prioritised the interests of the community.
A local dentist, Dr Azim Ayob, commented on behalf of the Eltivillas community, saying that Cllr Maphubu was always available to listen and respond to any resident who called on him, regardless of the time of day. "He always ensured that he assisted and addressed issues positively in his constituency. He was a true symbol of humility and a selfless human being. His untimely loss leaves a significant void in many of the communities he served," said Ayob.