Ngcobo businessman Vuyani Mawethu “Speedo” Mdaka has died from injuries after being hit by a car while crossing a street in central Ngcobo.
The well-known businessman was declared dead at the Nelson Mandela Central Hospital in Mthatha on Friday. He was 67.
Police said Mdaka had been crossing the town’s main street when the driver of a vehicle is alleged to have driven through a traffic light and crashed into him.
The accident occurred just after 1pm on July 10.
The driver, who is facing charges of culpable homicide, has not been named.
Police spokeswoman Warrant Officer Dineo Koena said: “The victim had just visited his business, a Total garage in the CBD and had been walking to his other business across the street when the accident occurred.”
She said an investigation was underway and once completed the docket would be sent to the office of the senior state prosecutor for a decision on whether or not to prosecute.
“The driver has not yet been arrested. We will wait to hear from the court,” said Koena.
Mdaka was described as “a prominent businessman, community builder and a very passionate family man”.
“My father was a very giving person and would not like to see people suffering.
“Instead he wanted to share everything with those in need,” said his son, Tobela Mdaka.
As a young man, Mdaka was a keen athlete and his speed and agility on the football field earned him the nickname “Speedo”.
He played for the Ngcobo Royals and Tembu Royals football teams, then giants of the former Transkei.
Although a teacher by training, Mdaka only taught for one year before pursuing business interests.
His businesses included Manzana General Dealer, Qwati Bottle Store, Yeyenu Fashions, Speedo’s Takeaways and Total Brite Star Service Station.
He also served on the executive of Transkei Chamber of Commerce as public relations officer and fundraising chairman.
He was also involved in many community development projects including the school feeding scheme and the building and renovation of several schools and hospitals.
Nafcoc provincial chairman Phumzile Ndendela described Mdaka’s death as a blow not only to the business community but also to those in need.
“He had a golden heart and was a humble man. This is big blow to everyone,” said Ndendela.
Mdaka is survived by his wife, Pamela, and four children – Ayanda, Luxolo, Tobela and Kanya as well as at least 20 children that he raised in his household.
His funeral will be held at the All Saints church in Ngcobo tomorrow. — lulamilef@dispatch. co.za
Prominent businessman killed in tragic car collision in Ngcobo
The well-known businessman was declared dead at the Nelson Mandela Central Hospital in Mthatha on Friday. He was 67.
Police said Mdaka had been crossing the town’s main street when the driver of a vehicle is alleged to have driven through a traffic light and crashed into him.
The accident occurred just after 1pm on July 10.
The driver, who is facing charges of culpable homicide, has not been named.
Police spokeswoman Warrant Officer Dineo Koena said: “The victim had just visited his business, a Total garage in the CBD and had been walking to his other business across the street when the accident occurred.”
She said an investigation was underway and once completed the docket would be sent to the office of the senior state prosecutor for a decision on whether or not to prosecute.
“The driver has not yet been arrested. We will wait to hear from the court,” said Koena.
Mdaka was described as “a prominent businessman, community builder and a very passionate family man”.
“My father was a very giving person and would not like to see people suffering.
“Instead he wanted to share everything with those in need,” said his son, Tobela Mdaka.
As a young man, Mdaka was a keen athlete and his speed and agility on the football field earned him the nickname “Speedo”.
He played for the Ngcobo Royals and Tembu Royals football teams, then giants of the former Transkei.
Although a teacher by training, Mdaka only taught for one year before pursuing business interests.
His businesses included Manzana General Dealer, Qwati Bottle Store, Yeyenu Fashions, Speedo’s Takeaways and Total Brite Star Service Station.
He also served on the executive of Transkei Chamber of Commerce as public relations officer and fundraising chairman.
He was also involved in many community development projects including the school feeding scheme and the building and renovation of several schools and hospitals.
Nafcoc provincial chairman Phumzile Ndendela described Mdaka’s death as a blow not only to the business community but also to those in need.
“He had a golden heart and was a humble man. This is big blow to everyone,” said Ndendela.
Mdaka is survived by his wife, Pamela, and four children – Ayanda, Luxolo, Tobela and Kanya as well as at least 20 children that he raised in his household.
His funeral will be held at the All Saints church in Ngcobo tomorrow. — lulamilef@dispatch. co.za
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