The traditional healing community is mourning the loss of renowned Limpopo traditional health practitioner Prof Dr Sylvester Mbaimbai Hlathi (74), also known as “The Great Inyanga,” who passed away on 26 November in Nelspruit after a short illness.

Dr Hlathi, born in 1951 in Maiveni village, Mozambique, moved to South Africa in 1969 and grew up in Welkom. He qualified as a traditional doctor in 1982 and became a prominent figure in the Vhembe region, running surgeries in Thohoyandou, Makhado, Giyani, Malamulele, and surrounding areas. He founded the SADC University of African Medicine and the Mhlabuhlangene School of African Medicine, championing structured education and training for traditional healers across the SADC region. At the time of his death, he served as president of the SADC Unified Ancestors Traditional Health Practitioners Association.

A respected advocate for public health, Dr Hlathi campaigned on HIV/AIDS awareness, gender-based violence, ritual killings, and moral regeneration. He also supported local communities in Vhembe through philanthropic work, including adopting 20 children and donating toilets to schools. His contributions to music and media included sponsoring Xitsonga Music Awards and supporting local radio programmes.

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba extended her condolences, describing Dr Hlathi as a highly respected healer and Vhembe community leader whose legacy was firmly etched in the province’s history.

Dr Hlathi is survived by his wife, Rirhandzu Theodore Hlathi, and 13 children. A memorial service will be held on 3 December in Malamulele, with the burial in his home village in Mozambique on 4 December.