Minister Zweli Mkhize sends condolences to Zondi-Mbhele family

Minister of COGTA, Dr Zweli Mkhize, sends condolences on the passing of Umshwathi Municipality Mayor

The Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Zweli Mkhize has sent condolences on the passing of Umshwathi Municipality Mayor, Councillor Siphindile Sibongile Zondi-Mbhele.

She passed away on Sunday February 17, 2019 after a short illness. Clr Zondi-Mbhele was the first woman mayor in this Natal Midlands municipality serving from 2016 until her untimely passing. Prior to that, she had served as deputy mayor for a period of ten years.

“In many respects, Ms Zondi-Mbhele was a pioneer and we salute the spirit of this mbokodo who showed dedication in serving people in the area of Mshwathi. To be able to rise to the level was a great achievement indeed. Her passion for working for the people of her area started when she took up teaching teacher at Nadi Primary School and also served as a PR Councilor in the erstwhile iNdlovu Regional Council.

“She was one of the first democratically-elected councilors in December 2000 and was a ward 3 Councilor.  She served as a Deputy Mayor from 2006 to 2016. During Local Government elections in 2016 she was nominated as ANC PR councillor and was also elected as a Mayor of uMshwathi Municipality.

“It is indeed a great loss to lose someone so young and dedicated and we bow our heads at her passing knowing that she has left a lasting legacy. We extend our deep condolences not only to her family but to the people of the municipality that she served with diligence and care. Sithi akwehlanga lungehlanga,” said Minister Mkhize.

She leaves a rich legacy especially in driving infrastructure projects which includes the completion of Thusong Centre, roads projects such as D1012/13, housing projects, community halls and sport facilities. She also worked hard at ensuring that the villages falling under the municipality were electrified while at the same ensuring that social and sports facilities were constructed for the communities she served.

She will be buried this weekend with the service at Mtulwa sports grounds starting at 9am.

Enquiries:
Musa Zondi
Cell: 072 800 6449

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