The fruitful life of the late Mr Khaukanani Obed Lukhwa (89) can be likened to a burning candle providing light to the people surrounding it.
Lukhwa passed away last week at Donald Fraser Hospital, following a short illness, and was buried at his home village of Mukula on Sunday. He was one of the most important role players who contributed immensely to the advancement of modern civilization. During his days as a bricklayer and distinguished businessman, Lukhwa built more than 50 schools and churches across the former Venda homeland.
Despite his advanced age, Lukhwa walked unaided, exercised daily and personally worked on his farm every day. He attributed his advanced age to a clean life and the health benefits of the hard, physical labour he used to do during his youth as a bricklayer.
In an interview a few years ago, Lukhwa told Limpopo Mirror how it had all started for him. "There were no schools in Venda, and I had to start from scratch. Government officials would show me a bush and I had to clear everything to lay a foundation. There were no tenders by then. Government would send our money to the chiefs, and we would collect it from the Tribal Councils in brown envelopes."
His son, Ernest Lukhwa, sadly said: "My father was the uniting factor within the family. We relied on him for wisdom and advice. We will miss his love, smile and hard work, which contributed to community development initiatives around our area. The schools, churches and houses he built will always remind us of his good work."
On behalf of the family, he thanked everyone for the support they had received since their father's death. "Judged by the huge influx of condolences, it is very clear that my father was a people's person. We thank everyone for their support during this difficult time of mourning the passing of our loved one."
Khotsimunene Vho-Rudzani Takalani of the Takalani Royal family said that the people of Mukula had received the news of Lukhwa's passing with shock. "He was one of the greatest men ever produced in this village, and his role will never be forgotten."