Story : Ursula Wesenaar |
A sombre yet heartfelt memorial service was held at the eThekwini Community Church on Thursday to honour the life of Sdudla Mhlongo, a devoted member of the African National Congress whose legacy touched both political and family circles.
Family, friends, comrades, ward councillors and community members gathered to celebrate her life, sharing stories of resilience, faith and sacrifice. The service was marked by an emotional musical tribute from renowned singer Sgwili Zuma, whose performance moved many attendees to tears.
Speaking during the service, her grandson Gift Mhlongo recounted her final moments. He said his grandmother had been ill for a long time and struggled to breathe on the day of her passing on May 25, 2026. “We rushed her to the clinic, but she took her last breath there,” he said, reflecting the pain still felt by the family.
Mhlongo was widely known for her work as a merchandiser within the ANC, a role that became the backbone of her family’s livelihood. Her daughter, Nomzamo Mzimela, described her as a determined and business-minded woman who ensured her children received quality education despite financial challenges.
Ward 26 councillor Sibusiso Lushaba extended condolences to the family and encouraged community members and party supporters to continue supporting her merchandising business as a way of preserving her legacy.
Siya Gcabashe of SANCO remembered Mhlongo as a principled woman who strongly believed in equality and remained committed to her church throughout her life.
Mhlongo will be laid to rest this weekend, with her funeral service scheduled for Saturday morning at eThekwini Community Church, followed by her burial in Eshowe on Sunday.
