The Mukwevho family of Makonde village say they will not rest until those responsible for the brutal murder of their family member are found and face the full might of the law.
Former Makonde Home Defenders Football Club player Rendani Victor Mukwevho was found in a pool of blood with multiple gunshot wounds in Alexandra township, Gauteng. His car, cellphone and bank cards were not taken during the murder. He was laid to rest during an emotional funeral in Makonde on Wednesday, 24 December.
His death came as a shock to relatives and friends, who described him as a peaceful man who would not hurt a fly.
Born on 9 January 1963, Mukwevho grew up in Makonde village, where his talent for soccer soon became evident. While a pupil at Raluvhimba High School, he played a key role in the school’s soccer team, one of the strongest in the area. Known as Mr DJ in soccer circles, he earned widespread respect during his heyday at Makonde Home Defenders.
Addressing mourners at the funeral, his daughter, Sweetness Mukwevho Zungu, said the family could not understand why “heartless, faceless criminals” had killed her father. “My father was a loving person whose friendly life inspired many people. To us, he was more like a best friend than a parent. He supported his family to the fullest and wanted all his children to have a bright future. Now that criminals have cut his life short, we can’t imagine how we will live without him. Our prayers are that those who murdered our father should be found, arrested and rot in jail.”
Mukwevho’s close friend, Fhambanani Nemandava, said his death was a terrible blow. “His brutal death is a terrible blow for all of us who knew how good he was. We will definitely miss his love, smile and genuine advices he gave us to build our lives.”
Former colleague Eugine Ramahuma described Mukwevho as a loyal and dedicated employee. “Though he was over sixty, Mukwevho was strong and energetic like a teenager. He loved his work wholeheartedly and demonstrated responsibility in every task allocated to him.”