The drizzling showers and cold weather could not deter hundreds of mourners from paying their last respects to former journalist Livhalani Richard Mmbi of Maniini village outside Thohoyandou.
Mmbi, who worked as a reporter for Univen FM before venturing into farming, died after falling ill earlier last week. The funeral service, which was preceded by a short programme at the local Evangelical Lutheran Church, was concluded at the family grave yard in the village.
A staunch member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mmbi was an active member of the Young Adults League and he was about to be promoted to the Men's' League during the time of his death. Because of his love for politics, Mmbi was also known as Makwetu among his friends and immediate family members.
Representing the family, Mr Victor Mmbi said Livhalani had accomplished his race of life in a responsible manner. "In his 43 years of life, our child achieved a lot in life. It was a life well lived and we will always remember his humility, love, respect and ever-smiling face. Although we know that we will never see him again, we are consoled by his good work, which will remain to be seen time and again. His contributions towards the development of Maniini village will inspire us to work hard to bring a better life for all."
Local journalist Godfrey Mandiwana, who studied journalism with Mmbi, said that when they met at the then Tshisimani College of Education to study journalism, "we immediately became very close because we both come from royal families. He was a very kind character who couldn't even hurt a fly. I have definitely lost a friend who will be very difficult to replace. He is one of the fearless journalists produced locally and his hard work towards the establishment of Vhembe Journalists Forum (VJF) will remain in our minds forever."
Mmbi was born on 29 November 1973. He did his primary schooling at Lurenzheni Primary School and later matriculated at Shayandima High School. He then studied journalism at Tshisimani College of Education and thereafter worked for Univen FM. After his farmer father died, Mmbi took over the family farming business and provided the local villagers with chickens, fruit and vegetables. He also served as a caregiver for the local drop-in centre. He is survived by his wife, Thivhafuni Matshavha, mother, sisters and young brother.