KwaMhlanga – David Mhletshwa Masombuka, a respected and dedicated public servant, tragically passed away while on duty. Masombuka, 64, was the branding, marketing, and communications manager at Nkangala District Municipality (NDM). He died on Sunday, September 29, 2024, en route to an Integrated Development Plan (IDP) meeting in Emalahleni.
During an emotional memorial service in KwaMhlanga, Thembisile Hani Municipality, NDM Municipal Manager Margaret Skosana, speaking on behalf of the District Municipality, remembered Masombuka for his passion for communications.
“He was a relentless champion for effective communication within the public sector,” she told mourners. “His unwavering commitment to clarity and impactful government communication has left a lasting legacy.” Skosana also recalled how Masombuka, with just four months left until retirement, had, for over three years, kept postponing early retirement despite expressing his desire to go rest, due to his love and dedication to his work.
Lucky Ngomane, representing the provincial communicators’ forum, also paid tribute to Masombuka, whom they affectionately referred to as ‘Mr Clean Audit’ due to his frequent emphasis whenever he got a chance to talk. “His passing has deeply saddened us all. Masombuka was a pioneer in regional branding and marketing, whose pursuit of excellence elevated Nkangala District Municipality,” Ngomane said. He further highlighted Masombuka’s fearless nature, standing firm in what he believed in and advocating for the rights of communicators, even at national communicators forum meetings with ministers.
In his tribute, NDM Mayor Thomas Ngwenya shared details of Masombuka’s tragic passing and reflected on his vital role within the municipality. “Masombuka understood that communication wasn’t just about sharing information; it was about building relationships with residents, stakeholders, and other municipalities. His efforts ensured that Nkangala was not only heard but understood, valued and trusted by all,” Ngwenya said.
Before joining the district municipality, Masombuka was an educator. His former colleague and friend, Mnguni, from the Ndebele College of Education, shared poignant memories of Masombuka’s bravery and dedication to justice. “In 1986, he fearlessly directed students to leave the college to join a national protest that led to the closure of all colleges. Remarkably, Ndebele College was the only one that remained open during the protest,” Mnguni recalled. He also mentioned that Masombuka was eagerly looking forward to a college reunion scheduled for October 5, which he had committed to attending with great anticipation.
Since the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from across the country, commemorating Masombuka’s profound influence in the fields of communication, education, and politics.
