uMngeni mayor Chris Pappas slams AFASA KZN leader's senseless murder
Mbongeni Skhakhane, KZN chairperson of the African Farmers’ Association of South Africa was shot dead in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg.
Image: File
The KwaZulu-Natal chairperson of the African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA) has been killed in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg.
This is according to a statement released by uMngeni Local Municipality mayor, Chris Pappas. He said that the municipality was deeply saddened by the murder of Mbongeni Skhakhane.
He said Skhakhane was shot dead in Sweetwaters in a horrific act of violence.
“Mr Skhakhane was more than a leader in agriculture, he was a pillar of strength in the farming community, a mentor to emerging farmers, and a champion for rural development across the province. His dedication to empowering farmers and building inclusive growth in the agricultural sector made him a respected and admired figure. His loss is a devastating blow to his family, AFASA, the agricultural sector, and all South Africans who benefitted from his leadership.”
African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA) KZN chairperson Mbongeni Skhakhane was killed in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg.
Image: AFASA KZN / Facebook
Pappas conveyed his condolences on behalf of the uMngeni Municipality to Skhakhane’s family, colleagues and friends.
“We hold them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly painful time. We echo AFASA’s call for the South African Police Service to ensure a thorough and urgent investigation so that those responsible are arrested and face the full might of the law. Justice must not be delayed, and it must not be denied.
“This senseless act is yet another reminder of the unacceptable levels of violent crime in South Africa. Farmers, business owners, and community leaders continue to live under threat simply for contributing to society and driving local economic development. Government at all levels must prioritise safety and protection for those who feed, employ, and build our nation.”