WeeklySA_AdminTRAGEDY: The foundation has extended condolences and practical support to bereaved relatives following a tragic N2 road accident that claimed the lives of six members of one family in Mtubatuba…
By WSAM Reporter
The Nyatee Foundation has expressed its deep sorrow and solidarity with the families of six relatives who lost their lives in a devastating road accident on the N2 near Mtubatuba in northern KwaZulu-Natal on January 30.
The victims — Mama Nokuphakama “MaMdletshe” Mnyango (85), Mama Makhosi kaMnyango Mthembu (52), Mvuyani Gcaleka (43), Senamile Buthelezi (29), Ayanda Pearl Mthembu (12) and Banzi Buthelezi (6) — died when their vehicle was involved in the horrific crash.
A mass funeral service for the deceased will be held at Mawombe Stadium on Sunday under uMfolozi Municipality.
Describing the incident as a tragedy that has shaken the entire community, the foundation said the loss of six members of one family has left relatives and neighbours grappling with profound grief.
Moved by compassion, the foundation visited the bereaved families to offer emotional, spiritual and material support. It has also committed to assisting with burial arrangements and providing ongoing support beyond the funeral period.
“This is not just a tragedy; it is a wound that cuts through the heart of the community,” said the foundation’s spokesperson Thobile Mchunu. “The loss of six lives in one family is unimaginable. Our presence here is a commitment to walk alongside these families, not only today, but in the days, weeks and months ahead.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lindelani Gcaleka said the trauma of the accident scene continues to haunt them.
“It has been devastating. The car was a total write-off and some of the family members were disfigured. We do not wish this on anyone. We wake up every day hoping it is not true, but the pain remains,” he said.
The Foundation has called on community leaders, faith-based organisations and local residents to unite in support of the grieving families, stressing that healing requires collective care and sustained compassion. It said its intervention forms part of its broader mission to serve communities in times of crisis, restore dignity and promote empathy and social responsibility.
“In moments like these, humanity must speak louder than despair,” the Foundation said. “We stand in solidarity with the families of Mtubatuba. Their pain is our pain, and their healing matters to all of us.”
The Nyatee Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Sandton, Gauteng, focused on community empowerment, social equity, and rural development, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. Founded by philanthropist Dumisani “Teddy” Nyathi, it actively combats gender-based violence and provides housing for vulnerable, elderly residents.
