Mbhashe Local Municipality has confirmed the tragic passing of Nkosi Xolilizwe Zunguzane of the Amakiti Traditional Council in Elliotdale. The respected traditional leader, who served the municipality as part of its council representation, died in a car accident on the N2 in Dutywa on 7 December 2025.
Nkosi Zunguzane was a traditional leader from Ward 18 and played a significant role in community governance, local cohesion and rural development in Elliotdale and the broader Mbhashe area. His sudden death has left the institution of traditional leadership and his community in deep mourning.
Council expresses condolences
Mbhashe Local Municipality Speaker, Cllr Babalwa Majavu, said the municipality was deeply saddened by the loss, describing Nkosi Zunguzane as a committed and principled leader.
“The passing of Nkosi Zunguzane is a tragic loss for the municipality and the communities he served. We remember him as one of those traditional leaders who is very assertive in his work and ensured that community development was prioritised,” Majavu said.
She added that the municipality would honour his memory as a reminder of dedicated service and integrity.
A respected traditional leader
Nkosi Zunguzane was known within the Amakiti Traditional Council for his focus on community development and fairness in leadership roles. He was among the local leaders who worked closely with municipal structures to strengthen service delivery in rural communities.
His passing has drawn sympathy from traditional councils, families, residents and local organisations across Mbhashe, who described the loss as a blow to traditional leadership in the region.
Funeral and memorial service details
Mbhashe Local Municipality confirmed the following arrangements for the late Nkosi Zunguzane:
Home Visit
12 December 2025
Memorial Service
15 December 2025
Elliotdale Town Hall @ 10:00
Funeral Service
19 December 2025
Thwalimofu Administrative Area
Local impact
Nkosi Zunguzane’s death comes at a time when traditional leadership remains a crucial pillar in supporting rural service delivery, dispute resolution and social stability. His absence leaves a significant gap, particularly in Ward 18, where he was known as a consistent and accessible leader.
The municipality called on residents to support the Zunguzane family and the Amakiti Traditional Council during this difficult time.
