The rural village of Guyuni Hamakuya and surrounding communities, including Domboni under the Makuya Tribal Council, are in mourning following the passing of traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Khangala ruda mato Lalumbe. Known for his dedication to promoting Vhavenda culture and tradition, the 70-year-old passed away on 28 January after a short illness.
Family spokesperson Ntevheleni Lalumbe described the late Vhamusanda Lalumbe as a leader who loved his communities and served as a unifier within both the family and the Lalumbe clan.
Ntevheleni said that Vhamusanda Lalumbe, who resided in Thohoyandou Block F, had been ill for some time. A teacher by profession, he was installed as the traditional leader of Guyuni Hamakuya on 29 September 2000, following the death of his father, Vhamusanda Vho Tshishonge Lalumbe, who passed away in October 1997.
“He taught at several schools, starting at Doli Primary School in Hamashamba, then Tshiluvhi in Thohoyandou, Magiledzhi in Mutale, Maheni village, and later retired while teaching at Hillmary Learning Centre in Thohoyandou Block G Extension,” Ntevheleni said.
The traditional funeral of Vhamusanda Lalumbe will be held on Saturday, 7 February, at the Mbaleni Municipal Graveyard near Makwarela Extension, starting at 06:30. Two memorial services are scheduled for Friday, 6 February — one in Guyuni Hamakuya at 10:00, and another at the Thohoyandou Lutheran Church Multi-Purpose Centre, starting at 14:00.
He is survived by his wife and five children.