The late traditional leader and executive member of Contralesa in Vhembe, Vhamusanda Vho Phaswana Edward Ramukhuba, was remembered as a selfless leader dedicated to improving his community.
Ramukhuba (78), of Haramukhuba in Vuwani, passed away on Saturday, 11 January, after a prolonged but unspecified illness.
Hosi Gezani Ernest Makhubele, secretary of Contralesa in Vhembe, confirmed his death. In a statement issued on Sunday, he said, "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our organiser, Khosi Vho P.E. Ramukhuba." He described the late leader as a disciplined and devoted member of Contralesa.
"As the Vhembe regional organiser and deputy chairperson of the Vuwani branch, he performed his duties with distinction. As leaders, we learnt a lot from him. He was a devoted Christian and a diplomat," Makhubele added.
Family spokesperson Mr Ravele Ramabulana praised him as a unifier, a devoted family man, and a leader who led from the front. "He served his people with distinction and will always be remembered for his passion for development in his area," he said.
Vhamusanda Vho Ramukhuba was born at Jerome Ramukhuba on 18 July 1946. He was the only child of the late Vhamusanda Vho Azwifheli Johannes Ramukhuba and the late Marandela Maduvha Mulokwe Ramukhuba. His father was a descendant of Makhado Tshilwavhusiku Ramabulana.
Ramukhuba began his education at Shumani Primary School in the Malamulele area, before proceeding to Tshivhase Secondary School and later Shingwedzi High School. In 1969, he moved to Johannesburg, where he worked for Fuchsware, later renamed Barloworld, until his retirement in 1999.
In 2001, he ascended to his father's throne following the latter's passing. He married Mercy Ramukhuba, and together they were blessed with three children: Thandi, Matodzi, and Mpofu.
Ramukhuba will be laid to rest at the Ramukhuba sacred burial site on 17 January.