Local 400-metres running sensation Pfano Mukwevho Ungedzani received a hero's welcome when he arrived at Thavhani Mall last Friday morning.
In an effort to highlight the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV), Ungedzani embarked on a gruelling 448km run from Pretoria to Thohoyandou, which started on 1 June. His aim was to raise awareness of the violence that continues to erode the moral fibre of society.
Learners from schools in and around Thohoyandou abandoned their classrooms to join crowds of supporters who ran with him towards the mall, where he was hailed as a symbol of hope and resilience.
Following a poorly organised welcome ceremony at the mall, Ungedzani was escorted to his home village of Tshidzini, where local traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Nthetsheleseni Muntswu and Thovhele Musiiwa Gole Mphaphuli welcomed him as a hero of the Mphaphuli dynasty.
At a formal function in Tshidzini on Saturday afternoon, Thovhele Mphaphuli spoke of the challenges Ungedzani had faced during his run, including the harsh terrain and negative comments on social media. "There were times when he contemplated quitting, especially amidst negative comments questioning his ability and intentions. However, his resolve strengthened as he recognised the importance of his cause," Thovhele Mphaphuli said.
He added that Ungedzani was determined to silence the critics, not for himself, but for the countless victims of GBV who suffered in silence. "This desire to be a voice for the voiceless is what ultimately propelled him forward," he said.
Vhamusanda Vho Nthetsheleseni Muntswu praised Ungedzani's example to the village's youth. "He is a teetotaller who has always been involved in youth projects. I am very proud of his achievement, and if he needs a building stand, I will give it to him free of charge," he said.
Ungedzani expressed gratitude to his supporters. "But I was shocked when people spread rumours that I had been involved in an accident. I even cried when I saw a Facebook post by a resident of my village claiming I had died. But I hold no grudges — I know that, with God, I will do more," he said.
Asked whether he had received enough support from local businesses and the government, he said: "I am very grateful to the business community. But to be honest, I did not receive anything from the government."
His mother, Ms Rosina Ungedzani, said she was very proud of her son. "He is my last-born, and we are very close. As a mother, I will always pray for him to do well in life," she said.