The community of Bizana came together in grief and solidarity to honour eight members of the AFM Dumsi Assembly who lost their lives in a tragic head-on collision. The mass funeral, held under a large tent prepared by the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality, drew hundreds of mourners, including over 150 church leaders from across South Africa.
Pastor Chauke, National Chairlady of the AFM Women’s Fellowship, accompanied by Pastor Zungu from the church’s head office, described the deceased as “unique and deeply dedicated to the work of God.” Messages of support also came from churches and institutions, including Assemblies of God SACC.
The municipality’s Hon. Mayor, one of the first to visit the bereaved families, rallied government resources to ensure a dignified send-off. In her address, she commended the collaboration between religious, traditional, and governmental sectors in supporting the grieving families. She specifically acknowledged the Amantshase Chief for providing groceries and meat for the funeral.
Reflecting on the municipality’s broader community involvement, the mayor highlighted initiatives aimed at youth development and agricultural advancement. “We’ve worked with the farming sector to enhance commercial farming and supported youth across physical, mental, and moral growth,” she said. She encouraged communities to utilize the 31 community halls built in 31 out of the municipality’s 32 wards.
Looking ahead, the mayor expressed a vision for Bizana’s future, including its transformation into a metro area. She noted that construction of a mini-town in Imizizi Location would begin soon, pending final agreements with investors. Plans for a university specializing in ocean economy and agriculture are also in the pipeline, a first of its kind in South Africa.
The mayor also celebrated local achievements on the global stage, mentioning Tina Dolwana, who competed in ballroom dancing in Russia, Sinovuyo Mbotho, a bodybuilder who represented South Africa in Iran, and Mandisi Majola, who competed in Spain. She reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to youth development, support for women, and inclusion of people with disabilities, stating, “Together, we can build a brighter future for Bizana.”
