Tributes pour in after news of death of radio presenter, Rampsy

Tributes from relatives, friends, colleagues, and listeners poured in after the devastating news of the death of Phalaphala FM’s sports presenter, Rofhiwa “Rampsy” Rampfumedzi. The popular radio presenter died at Mediclinic in Polokwane on Thursday, 7 January, following a short illness. He was only 41 years old.

Rampsy worked on various programmes during his 16 years at Phalaphala FM, including as a music compiler. He previously also presented the “Vhugalatenga” show. At the time of his death, he was presenting the “Zwamitambo” (sports show) from 19:00 to 20:00, Mondays to Fridays.

His uncle, Mr Balanganani Rampfumedzi, described Rampsy’s death as a tremendous loss to the family. “It is painful to lose someone so dear, but we thank God for the privilege to have had him in our lives.”

Rampfumedzi said Rampsy had accomplished the goals he had set out for himself in a respectable manner. “He had achieved so much in his life. It was a life well lived, and we will always remember his humility, love, respect, and ever-smiling face. Although we know that we will never see him again, we are consoled by the good work he has left behind. His contributions towards the development of the radio station will keep on inspiring us to work hard towards a better life for all,” he said.

Phalaphala FM’s sports producer, Mr Tshililo “Chiraiza” Nelufule, encouraged young presenters to follow in Rampsy’s footsteps. “He was an accurate presenter during his years at the station who did his work without fear or favour. His contribution towards the shaping of the radio industry will always be remembered. His spirit will continue to guide us in building and raising a proud standard for the industry,” Nelufule said.

Phalaphala FM’s programme manager, Ms Sharon Ravele, described Rampsy as a great man whose sweat and hard work had brought many changes to the community he served. “This is a great loss, not only for the station and the family but the whole community. To lose a presenter of his calibre is sad. We pray that God gives those who had been close to him the comfort they need in this time of grief. He was a mentor to young presenters, an icon of hope, a role model, and he displayed distinguished leadership skills in his society. Death has taken a comrade, confidante, and inspirational human being. He left a legacy in the broadcasting industry and will live on in our memories,” she said.

A memorial service will be held at the SABC Limpopo Hall in Polokwane today (Thursday) at 12:00, and the funeral service will be held in Polokwane on Saturday, 13 January. He will be buried at Tshakhuma Mibomoni.

Date:12 January 2024

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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