The local business fraternity suffered a terrible blow with the death of one of its black entrepreneurial pathfinders. Mr Joseph Mphaphuli (86) from Ha-Kutama Maebani village, also known as Duze, died at the Netcare Pholoso Hospital in Polokwane on Saturday, 15 October, after a long illness.
Family members and friends said that the legendary Mphaphuli would go down in the history books as a true example of what hard work was all about. Starting from scratch, and with no capital to his name, Mphaphuli worked arduously all his life, until he established himself as one of the leading businessmen in the Vhembe District. At the time of his death, he owned many shops and restaurants around the Sinthumule Kutama area. He was also a devout Christian.
One of his children, Attorney Desmond Mphaphuli, said the family had suffered a great loss with the death of his father. "Our father has taught us to work hard, and we will pick up the spear where he left off. We will miss him dearly," he said.
Pastor Eddy Ndouvhada of The Living Gospel World Mission Church's Midoroni branch said that Mphaphuli was known for his generous and giving spirit. "He was our business mentor; a selfless, caring soul and a father to many. He assisted many children with bursaries, made donations to various churches. For many years, he served selflessly and faithfully in different communities, created employment for many families and in dark days he made himself available day and night to all who needed him. He managed to touch many lives in different ways," said Ndouvhada.
Mphaphuli will be buried on Saturday, 22 October, at Maebani. The funeral service will be held at The Living Gospel World Mission Church's Midoroni branch.