
Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee for Roads and Transport, Andile Mngwevu, has been found dead in Mozambique after days of searching.
Mngwevu went missing after floodwaters swept away the vehicle he was travelling in. The incident happened in the Chokwé area in southern Mozambique. Heavy rains caused rivers to overflow and roads to collapse in several parts of the region.
Reports say Mngwevu was travelling with other passengers when the group tried to cross a flooded road. Strong water currents pulled the vehicle off the road and carried it away. Some passengers managed to escape. Others disappeared in the rushing water.
Rescue teams from Mozambique worked with local authorities and volunteers to search for the missing people. The operation continued for several days under difficult conditions. On Tuesday, search teams located Mngwevu’s body downstream from the accident site. They also recovered the remains of other people who has been in the vehicle.
The City of Ekurhuleni confirmed his death in a statement. Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza said the city had lost a dedicated leader and public servant.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Councillor Mngwevu. He served the people of Ekurhuleni with commitment and respect,” Xhakaza said.
The African National Congress also expressed its condolences to the family. The party described Mngwevu as a disciplined cadre who worked hard to improve transport services and road safety in the metro.
Mngwevu played an important role in overseeing road projects and public transport programmes in Ekurhuleni. Colleagues said he always focused on service delivery and community development.
Family asked for privacy during this difficult time. Officials are working with Mozambican authorities to return his body to South Africa.
They said even shallow water can be dangerous and hide strong currents beneath the surface.
The tragedy has highlighted the growing risks caused by extreme weather in southern Africa. Communities continue to suffer from floods, damaged infrastructure and loss of life.
His sudden death has left many shocked and mourning across Ekurhuleni and beyond.
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