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Six members died in N2 crash. (Supplied)

By Mathipa Phishego

A mass funeral will be held on Sunday, February 8, for six members of the same family who tragically lost their lives in a horrific road accident on the N2 near Mtubatuba in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) on Friday, January 30.

The funeral service will take place at Mawombe Stadium under the uMfolozi Local Municipality. Nyatee Foundation has stepped in to support the bereaved family, offering condolences and assistance following the devastating crash that claimed the lives of Mama Nokuphakama “MaMdletshe” Mnyango (85), Mama Makhosi kaMnyango Mthembu (52), Mvuyani Gcaleka (43), Senamile Buthelezi (29), Ayanda Pearl Mthembu (12), and Banzi Buthelezi (6).

The tragedy has plunged the Mtubatuba community into deep mourning, with residents struggling to come to terms with the sudden and immense loss of six family members in a single incident.

Moved by compassion, the Nyatee Foundation recently visited the grieving family to offer emotional, spiritual, and material support. The delegation spent time consoling relatives, listening to their experiences, and providing assistance aimed at easing the burden during this painful period. The Foundation has also committed to supporting burial arrangements and post-funeral needs.

“This is not just a tragedy, it is a wound that cuts through the heart of the community. The loss of six lives in one family is unimaginable. Compassion must go beyond words into action. Our presence here is a commitment to walk alongside these families today and in the months ahead,” said Nyatee Foundation spokesperson Thobile Mchunu.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Lindelani Gcaleka described the emotional toll of the incident. “We are at a loss for words. What we witnessed at the scene was devastating. The vehicle was completely destroyed, and some family members were badly disfigured. We would not wish this on anyone. Every day we wake up hoping it is not real, but the pain remains.”

Nyatee Foundation has called on community leaders, organisations, faith-based institutions, and residents to unite in support of the grieving family, emphasising the importance of collective healing and compassion. The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to providing ongoing assistance, noting that healing is a long journey that requires sustained care and solidarity.

“In moments like these, humanity must speak louder than despair. Their pain is our pain, and their healing matters to all of us,” said Mchunu. The Nyatee Foundation once again extended its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the wider Mtubatuba community, assuring them of continued support, prayers, and compassion during this difficult time.