Hundreds of residents from Tshipise Tsha Sagole, surrounding villages, ZCC members in uniform, and traditional leaders gathered at the Netshipise royal palace to bid farewell to the esteemed traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Sotshayo John Kwinda Netshipise.
Kwinda Netshipise, 77, a passionate farmer and respected community figure, tragically passed away in a tractor accident at his home on Thursday, 30 October. His funeral, held on Friday, 7 November, followed all royal protocols and rituals.
Speakers paid tribute to his humility, leadership, and contributions to the community. Representing senior traditional leader Vho Thovhela Mmbengeni Tshikundamalema, Vhamusanda Vho Nnduvheni Tshishonge urged the family to unite during this period of transition. "Netshipise was one of the most trusted chiefs. We urge the family to quickly nominate an acting chief to ensure that development does not stall. The royal council must work closely with the acting chief until a new leader is installed," he said.
Family spokesperson Mr Mukondi Netshokotshoko highlighted Kwinda Netshipise's dedication to his family and community. "He will be remembered for driving development in the village. A workaholic, he tilled the land to ensure food security and respected all members of the community. He remained a staunch ZCC member until his death," he said.
Born in 1948 at Tshipise Tsha ha Belavhathu, later known as Tshipise Tsha Sagole, Netshipise received only a primary school education, tending his father's livestock instead of pursuing further schooling. He worked at the local mine in Zwigodini before moving to Brits in 1965, and later joined a dairy farm in Louis Trichardt in 1977, where he discovered his passion for livestock farming.
He returned home after his father's passing in 1981. In 1982, the khadzi and his family named him heir to fill the vacuum left by Vhamusanda Vho Maluta Jack Netshipise. He was officially installed as traditional leader that same year, beginning decades of service marked by humility, dedication, and community development.