Chairperson of Zambian Catholic community in South Africa dies

Chairperson of the Zambian Catholic Community in South Africa Chimwemwe Mtonga has died.

Mr. Mtonga 51, collapsed and died on Saturday evening at his home in Craighall Park in Johannesburg in South Africa.

Zambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa Emmanuel Mwamba and Zambians living in that country have expressed shock at his sudden death.

Mr. Mwamba said the late Mr. Mtonga and his wife, Beauty were a selfless couple that were instrumental in promoting unity among Zambians in South Africa.

He said the couple recently organised the funeral service for former Vice President Lupando Mwape where Mr. Mtonga was the director of ceremony held at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Craighall Park.

He said the deceased helped and collaborated with the embassy in organizing community activities especially the holding of national prayers, Independence Day celebrations and other associated activities.

Mr. Mwamba said the couple was also quick in assisting Zambians especially those that were affected by sickness, death or were stranded and many young people under their care.

He said the death of Mr. Mtonga was a big blow to the Zambian community living in South Africa.

The High Commissioner has since sent his deep-felt condolences to the late Mr. Mtonga’s wife and the family.

The late Mr. Mtonga had lived in South Africa for about 20 years and is survived by a wife and two children.

Mr. Mtonga worked for Standard Bank in South Africa was a brother to former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Velepi Mtonga.

This is contained in a statement released to ZANIS by First Secretary for Press and Public Relations at the Zambian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa, Naomi Nyawali.