Shock and grief have gripped the communities of Gumela and Ngalavhani, following the sudden and mysterious death of respected businessman and traditional leader Aifheli Enos Nduvheni, also known as Sithagu or Malise. He died on Friday, 16 May, on his way to the Matavhela Clinic. He was 73.
Nduvheni, a member of the Rambuda Tribal Council committee tasked with resolving traditional leadership disputes, was buried on Saturday, 24 May in HaNduvheni. The funeral drew a large crowd, reflecting the deep respect he commanded.
His wife, Grace Nnyagiseni Nduvheni, said she had prepared his breakfast that morning and was shocked to learn later that day of his death. "We had just celebrated 50 years of marriage. I never imagined it would be our last day together," she said tearfully.
The Rambuda Tribal Council described his death as a blow to ongoing efforts to mediate leadership disputes. Council representative Khotsimunene Phusuphusu Rambuda said, "His passing comes at a time when we need his wisdom most."
Vhamusanda Muthuhathonwi Nduvheni of Ngalavhani, who worked closely with the late Nduvheni, praised his dedication and support. "After my father died in 2021, he stepped in as a father figure. He guided us through my coronation in 2023 and was a pillar of strength."
Born in Ngalavhani on 2 February 1952, Nduvheni was the son of Simon Mavhungu and Nyamukamadi Muthathe Nduvheni. He began his schooling at Mufulwi Primary and later attended Matavhela Higher Primary. Due to economic hardship, he worked as a labourer in Tshipise and later in Johannesburg, where he entered the panel-beating trade.
In 1989, he returned home and established a successful family business, including a supermarket, bottle store, and restaurant. In recent years, he retired from business and handed operations to his eldest daughter, Angelina.
He is survived by his wife, 11 children, and 10 grandchildren.