The office of King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana and the communities in Vhembe are in mourning, following the passing away of Mr Jackson Langanani Mafunzwaini, advisor to the King.
Mafunzwaini (63) of Block A in Sibasa, passed away last Wednesday (18 July) in a hospital in Pretoria after a long illness.
King Mphephu-Ramabulana said that he was saddened by the passing away of Mafunzwaini, because he was a trusted and dedicated aid with huge knowledge of chieftainship issues. "He used to advise us well with all the chieftainship problems in a dignified manner. He left us while we were still in need ofmore information and research on chieftain disputes and resolutions," he added.
Family spokesperson Ms Thelma Marole said life would never be the same after Mafunzwaini's passing. She said Mafunzwaini, who received professional teacher's training, taught only for one year in 1979 at Tshiheni Primary School. He then joined the former Venda government as an administrator in 1980.
"He then joined the office of the Vhavenda King as advisor until he passed away. His Azwi Development Agency, which focuses on social issues and traditional affairs, honoured the President of the Republic of Venda, Khosikhulu Patrick Ramaano Mphephu, by hosting a memorial lecture," said Marole. The agency also honoured several South African statesmen, irrespective of political affiliation.
Mafunzwaini will be buried on Saturday in zwiendeulu (sacred place) of Mafunzwaini in Tshikunda village near Phiphidi.
Mafunzwaini is survived by his wife, Ms Mmbambadzeni Mafunzwaini, and five children, Ndivhuwo, Lusani, Khethani, Dakalo and Asi nga maanda.
He was a staunch member of the CWC church in Maniini village.