NAMAKGALE- Residents and family members of the late councilor Nomvula Anna Sono (56), gathered at Namakgale to pay their last respects on January 23.
Sono died on January 19 following a short illness.
Politicians and friends expressed their sadness at the passing of the former mayor of Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality and paid tribute to her dedication and commitment to improving the lives of the people she served.
She served the African National Congress Women’s League from 1985 to 1990, from 1990 until 1994 she was the ANCWL secretary in Namakgale. Amongst other roles, Sono served the Ba Phalaborwa Municipality as a Mayor from 2011 to 2016. At the time of her death, Sono served in Mopani District Municipality, as the District MMC heading community and social services portfolio committee chairperson.
Various speakers described her as a dedicated member in serving the people of Mopani District. She was also commended for her continuous passion for her work.
On behalf of both families, Irene Hleza and Martin Sono said both families have lost a giant, a person who always brought unity. “She was my sister in law but she treated me like her best friend, she was always there for us and we learned a lot from her, her teachings will always remain with us,” Hleza said.
Matshidiso Mokgobi, who spoke on behalf of friends, said her heart was filled with grief upon learning about the death of her friend. “She was a hard worker and a very good friend. She would sacrifice anything for her job. She had so much love for her family and friends, we will miss her dearly but her good deeds will remain forever, she has left a void in our hearts,” Mokgobi said.
Speaking on behalf of Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality is the Mayor councilor Marrium Malatji, Sono was a committed comrade, who was fearless. She would walk into a room filled with tension and she would just say one word and the tension would dissipate. ” She assisted me a lot in my current role, she would always give advice and created time just to make sure that I do things accordingly,” the Mayor explained.
She further said that Sono had a brave personality, she would always stand up for what she believes is right. “We have lost a leader, who would always put women first. Sono never like gossiping, she would address issues straight away and would not talk behind someone’s back,” she added.
Mourners remarked that thousands of people were touched by her life and she would make everyone around her feel welcomed and valued.
She is survived by her child Thabile Sono, grandchild Nhlamulo, sister Nikiwe and two brothers Bafana and Mandla Lukhozi
