By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe has applauded the Beitbridge community for rallying behind his family following the death of his seven-year-old grandson, Joseph Nguluvhe.
Joseph, the fourth grandson of Minister Nguluvhe and the only son of his first daughter, Tambudzani Nguluvhe, was laid to rest at the Nguluvhe homestead in Tshapongwe Village, Beitbridge.
He died on Tuesday after reportedly drinking paint thinners at their failed home in Harare on Monday, mistaking it for water.
The young boy rushed to hospital but succumbed to the effects of the substance.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network following the funeral, Minister Nguluvhe expressed gratitude to residents, businesspeople and local leaders who offered support and condolences during the family’s difficult time.
He said he was particularly touched by the support from Beitbridge residents, including leaders from different political backgrounds who put aside their differences to stand with his family.
“Like I said, death comes to anyone, regardless of your political affiliation. And I appreciate the business community all the way from Bulawayo, but I was more touched by the people from Beitbridge town.
“You saw the mayor. You saw the councillor of Ward 2, besides the councillors of the rural. And you know politically we might not be in the same party, but they left that aside and they came here so that we are together,” he said.
He said the show of solidarity reflected the spirit of Ubuntu, which he urged communities to uphold whenever families experience bereavement.
“So I encourage that. I hope it was not only done because I’m the minister. It must be done to everyone. That was my main message,” he said.
Municipality of Beitbridge Mayor Peter Pirato Mafuta, who attended the funeral, said the municipality and residents shared in the family’s grief.
“On behalf of the Municipality of Beitbridge, the residents and myself, the loss saddens us all, as the child was still young,” he said.
Beitbridge Rural District Council chairperson Oscar Chiromo also conveyed his sincere condolences to the bereaved family.
ZANU PF Central Committee member Showa Moyo said Joseph’s death was a loss of a life that held promise for the future.
“With his background of his grandfather, we have lost a future leader,” he said.
Beitbridge business community chairman Stubbs Muleya said the business community had also lost a child who could potentially have contributed to the town’s economic development.
“As a business community, we may have lost a potential business owner in Beitbridge who could have boosted our community,” he said.
The support extended to the Nguluvhe family brought together people from different backgrounds, reinforcing the importance of compassion and solidarity during times of grief.