Tributes have begun pouring in for well-known Bishop Rofhiwa Madzinge, following his tragic death in a car accident on the N1 to Gauteng on Monday, 21 August.
Madzinge, who served as the head pastor at the Christian Worship Centre (CWC)'s Pretoria branch, was returning to Gauteng after attending and officiating at a function held at the Father's House Ministry in Tshilamba. Full details about the accident were not available at the time of our going to press as the family has requested privacy to mourn and make arrangements for his burial.
The family's spokesperson, Mr Lutanyani Denge, did confirm his death. "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son, Bishop Rofhiwa Madzinge, who passed away yesterday afternoon. At this stage, we request privacy, but those who wish to send condolences to the family can visit the church, where prayer services will be held from today (Tuesday, 22 August). Further information about his burial will be disclosed in due course," he said.
One of the first prominent members of the community to convey their condolences was Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rambuda. "On behalf of the people of Thulamela Local Municipality, may I express my heartfelt sympathy to Dr Apostle VW Madzinge and the family on their significant personal loss," she said.
The chairperson of the Vhembe Pastors' Forum, Dr Alunamutwe Randitsheni, also offered words of comfort to the family. He described Madzinge's death as not only a loss to his family but to the entire Christian community.
Madzinge was the son of CWC founder Dr William Madzinge. He will be remembered for his role in uniting the youth of Vhembe and for encouraging pastors' children to lead exemplary lives.