Grieving mourners from around Vhembe, including councillors and family members, wept as the coffins of two young girls, Tshilidzi Mulamu (3) and Tshinakaho Mulaudzi (2), were lowered in the Magau Graveyard on Saturday. The two girls burnt to death in a shack last Monday.
The two minors were alone inside the shack when the fire broke out. Local community members who came to comfort the family felt they had to do something to help and the ward councillor and civic decided to approach different institutions for assistance.
The family spokesperson, Mr Stanley Mulaudzi, said they were humbled by the gesture from the donors. "We were confused and stranded after the tragic loss of our children and we did not know what to do," he added. Mulaudzi thanked the people who had made contributions during the funeral. He said that the family was still shocked by the horrific death of the helpless children.
During the burial service, the mayor of the Makhado Municipality, Cllr Samuel Munyai, urged mothers and guardians to not leave children unattended while they go away "As a municipality that cares for people's welfare, we don't wish to see incidents of this nature happening again in our area," Munyai said tearfully. "Two beautiful kids lost their lives. Parents must always keep a watchful eye on children."
Vhamusanda Vho-Ndwakhulu Sinthumule urged the community to stand up and ensure that the lives of children are safe. He appealed to the local community to give the families the necessary support while they go through this ordeal.