The Mulondo family from Shayandima Zone 11 has been deeply affected by tragedy. On Monday, 3 February, they were plunged into mourning with the death of their beloved family member, Mr Lufuno Mulondo. Just a week later, another member of the family also passed away tragically.
Lufuno Mulondo (40), better known as Bibo in showbiz circles, was an extraordinary dancer. He will be remembered for his remarkable performances as part of the popular Worship House music ensemble during its formative years. He featured in the group's well-known song Wo Ngalangala, composed by the band's founder, Bishop Isaac Dagada, back in 2004.
Mulondo passed away at his home last week after an unspecified illness. His funeral, held on Friday, 7 February, at the local soccer ground near his home, was attended by former colleagues from Worship House and many community members.
Tragically, the family suffered another devastating loss on Monday, 10 February, when Bibo's sister, Ms Mulalo Mulondo, also passed away after being hospitalised.
Family spokesperson Mr Lutendo Rathogwa said that Mulalo had suffered seizures immediately after her brother's funeral. "We had to rush her to the local clinic, from where she was later transferred to the hospital. We later learned she had suffered a stroke, but we remained hopeful she would recover. Unfortunately, we received the heartbreaking news of her passing on Monday. This is an incredibly difficult time for us as a family. We have not even begun to heal from Bibo's passing, and now we have lost another loved one. This is too much for us to bear. We need prayers and support to get through this painful situation," he said.
Pastor Emmanuel, better known as Kubudu, who was a close friend of the family and officiated at Bibo's funeral, was at a loss for words.
"We are shattered. Bibo and I were very close, and I became like part of the family. Coincidentally, he passed away on a Monday, and his sister also on a Monday. This is incredibly painful for us all. I know the hardship this family is facing. It will take all of us as a community to support them in every way we can and to keep them in our prayers," he said.