A local couple, both pharmacists, and their two children who died in a horrendous car accident on the N1 near Kranskop on 25 January were laid to rest at Silicon Cemetery on Saturday following a memorial service that was held at the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital’s recreational hall last Thursday.
Scores of mourners at the memorial service described the deceased as loving and honest individuals who always wanted to see people happy. Lesiba Moshiga, his wife Molebogeng and their children Naledi and Marumo died in a head on collision involving the vehicle they were travelling in and a truck. Different speakers conveyed their deepest condolences to the bereaved families.
It was reported that Lesiba had served the Department of Health at different facilities before joining the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority where he was operating as law enforcement inspector within the National Department of Health. Earlier Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba said: “Losing four members of one family is a serious tragedy and as government we will work with the relevant departments and entities to support the bereaved during this difficult period.”
It was learnt that Lesiba was not just a pharmacist but also an active erstwhile South African Students Congress activist, who championed many students’ struggles for better education. The African National Congress Provincial Secretary Soviet Lekganyane said the party has lost a cadre of high note with his family. He further said they will forever remain indebted to his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the lives of ordinary citizens.
The regulator of the pharmacy profession in the country, the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) was also shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths. Amos Masango, the Registrar and CEO of the SAPC indicated in a press statement that Lesiba had served as a councillor of the SAPC from 2008 until 2013. “During his term of office, Mr Moshiga worked tirelessly to ensure an enabling environment for the increased availability and accessibility of pharmaceutical services to all South Africans, and more especially the previously disadvantaged and rural communities. Such vitality and passion for the profession will be deeply missed. We extend our condolences to the Moshiga family, their loved ones, and all colleagues in Pharmacy,” Masango stressed.
Story & photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
