The death of veteran cultural activist Mr Mackson Mavunda, who dedicated his life to preserving the Vatsonga culture through the xigubu and muchongolo dance, has been described as a significant loss to the nation and the arts.
Mavunda, 76, of Ribungwani outside Louis Trichardt, passed away on Saturday, 25 October, after a short illness. His son, Vuthu Mavunda, confirmed he had been hospitalised at Elim Hospital the previous Thursday.
"He was sick and was admitted at Elim Hospital for two days, and we had hoped he would pull through, but he sadly passed on. He was an influential person but remained humble, treating everyone with respect. He was accessible and showed us all fatherly love. We will remember him for all he taught us," Vuthu Mavunda said.
Well-known creative arts and cultural activist Mr Ndoweni Malala, who was close to Mavunda, recalled their last moments together.
"Just days after being honoured with the Golden Shield Award as a Living Treasure by the National Heritage Council on 19 October, we now have to bid farewell to a man whose 40-year journey preserved and celebrated our cultural identity through traditional dance, music and mentorship. Mavunda was a true cultural guardian and champion of indigenous instruments. His lifelong dedication to preserving Vatsonga culture through music groups like Xigubu and his mentorship of young artists will never be forgotten," he said.
Malala added: "I started working with him in 2001 as part of the African Music Symphony Ensemble, now Music Is A Great Investment, and later with other indigenous musicians under African Indigenous Instrument Preservation. He was a living encyclopaedia from whom I learnt so much. Our recent trip to Mbombela for his Golden Shield Award was also eye-opening as he shared stories and the legacy of his work in traditional dance. His demise is a great loss, and we will always remember him for his exceptional music skills."
Mavunda's cultural journey began in 1980 with the formation of the Mahatlani Dance Group, later incorporated into the Gazankulu Youth Movement. He showcased Vatsonga culture through traditional dance and indigenous musical instruments across South Africa and in France.
In 1990, he established the Caravan Traditional Dance Group, a beacon of Xitsonga dance, particularly xigubu and muchongolo. Over the years, he mentored many young people and excelled at cultural competitions and festivals, receiving numerous awards for his contribution to cultural preservation and education.
Mavunda will be buried at his home village on Saturday, 1 November.