Tributes pour in after death of chief Nduvheni

Tributes started to pour in after the untimely death of local traditional leader, well-known businessman, and member of the ANC Chief Rembuluwani Solomon Nduvheni from Ngalavhani village in the Mutale area.

Chief Nduvheni (75) died on Thursday, 14 January, in the Mveledzo medical centre in Thohoyandou after a short illness. He was one of the longest-serving traditional leaders in the Ha-Rammbuda Tribal Council and served in different structures. After he had worked with former Venda Minister of Justice Thovhele John Ratshilumela Rammbuda, he worked as chairperson of the Rammbuda Tribal Council and as acting senior traditional leader, who worked with former Thovhele Muthu ha Thonwi Rammbuda. Before his untimely death, he worked with Thovhele Ratshibvumo II Rammbuda.

The Nduvheni clan, who are Vhambedzi (totem), called themselves ‘Vhaha mutwa u tshila’ and are known as caring people, even for those who are not part of the family.

One of his children, George Nduvheni, described his father as a hardworking man who served the Ngalavhani and all Ha-Rammbuda communities without compromise.

“After he had worked in different companies in Johannesburg, Gauteng, he established his own liquor transportation company. He returned home in 1977 and established his businesses, ranging from restaurants to liquor stores and supermarkets.  He was installed as the chief of Ngalavhani village in April 1984 and played a pivotal role in the establishment of rural-based schools in Ha-Rammbuda, such as Ngalavhani, Tshipinda, Dzimauli and Vele during his term as the acting senior traditional leader from 1985-1992,” George Nduvheni said.

Nduvheni was also a staunch member of the United African Apostolic Church (UAAC), under the leadership of archbishop EMM Mureri. He travelled to many countries and further established various church branches and served as cultural advisor at the Mutale Magistrate’s Court.

Thovhele Ratshibvumo II Rammbuda described the late Chief Nduvheni as a very experienced traditional leader in Ha-Rammbuda, who used his experience in advising the traditional leadership during disputes. He also encouraged good governance.

“His death is a great shock to us. He left a big void, which will be very difficult to fill,” Thovhele Rammbuda said.

The ANC structures in the Vhembe region also sent their sincere condolences and wished the chief’s soul to rest in peace.

Nduvheni is survived by his three wives, Emily, Takalani and Sarah, his children and grandchildren. His funeral was held on Wednesday, 20 January, in Zwiendelu zwa Ha-Nduvheni (sacred place) in Ngalavhani village under strict Covid-19 regulations.

News in brief - Date: 22 January 2021

Silas Nduvheni

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