Media Release: Sudden passing of another beloved Roads Services colleague and friend mourned

For immediate release
09 April 2021

Officials at the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Roads Services in George were left ‘speechless and sad’ when they were informed on the morning of 6 April 2021 about the passing of their co-worker Mzwabantu Mbem. He tragically succumbed together with his partner, sister and child, during a fire at his household over the Easter weekend at the age of thirty-one (31).

According to Andre Mouton, a former supervisor of the late Mbem, he will always be remembered as the “giant with the gentle nature”. Mouton described Mzwabantu as an exceptionally quiet and introverted person, kind and respectful and much loved among his colleagues. “The characteristics of Mzwabantu that will always remain with me is his positive attitude; always ready to assist his peers to solve problems with workable solutions,” he said.

Mzwabantu Mbem commenced his career on 1 May 2017 as Senior Worker at the GRDM Roads Services in Herbertsdale. He was later transferred to the George Maintenance Team. Prior to his appointment at the GRDM, Mzwabantu obtained a NQF Level 4 qualification in Roads Construction and during the last two years of his employment, he equipped himself by attending different training courses as well as attaining his Code 10 driver’s license. He was also busy with a mentorship course that would enable him to fulfill his aspiration to become a foreman in the future.

Marius Mqhokrwana, colleague and friend of the late Mzwabantu described him as a man of few words, a person who merely did what he was tasked to do.’ He further described “Mbem” as a people’s person and a person who loved being around others, in particular his family.

“Mbem was known to be the ‘leader of the pack’ in terms of work performance. He was an intelligent young man, hard-working and committed, we all foresaw a promising future for him. As quiet as he was, he leaves a big gap and is going to be greatly missed.”

A memorial service to honour and celebrate the life of Mzwabantu Mbem will be held on Friday, 09 April 2021, to grant his colleagues and friends the opportunity to bid their final farewells.  The Memorial Service will be broadcasted from the GRDM Council Chambers and will be available on Youtube at:  https://youtu.be/cjqm59uY4ng