…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
THREE FAMILY MEMBERS DIE BEFORE GRADUATION
A tragic incident unfolded for Khomotso Mafolo, a recent graduate from the University of Mpumalanga, as she lost three beloved family members in a car accident just hours before her graduation ceremony.
The victims, Khomotso’s father, Jacob Mafolo, her sister, Metron Sekgoka, and her twin brother, Kamogelo Mafolo, were en route to the university to witness Khomotso’s special day when their vehicle collided with a truck.
Unfortunately, all three family members were pronounced dead at the scene, casting a dark cloud over what should have been a joyous occasion.
CONDOLENCES FROM FRIENDS AND FAMILY
The devastating news has left friends and family members in deep sorrow, offering their heartfelt condolences to the Mafolo family during this difficult time.
The loss of three cherished individuals has undoubtedly caused immense grief and pain, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
POLICE INVESTIGATION INTO THE ACCIDENT
The Mpumalanga Police have taken swift action by registering a case of culpable homicide, signaling their commitment to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
This step is crucial in understanding what led to the tragic collision and determining any possible factors that may have contributed to the incident.
THE GRADUATE’S PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGMENT
In an emotional post on her TikTok account, Khomotso Mafolo confirmed the heartbreaking loss of her family members in the car accident.
Despite the overwhelming grief, she found the strength to share her tragic experience, dedicating her academic achievement to her late father.
Khomotso expressed her deep sorrow, saying, “Lost my dad, my twin brother, and my sister on my graduation day.
They were coming to attend my graduation, then God decided otherwise.
Daddy, your princess did this for you.”
THE GRADUATE’S FIELD OF STUDY
Khomotso Mafolo, a 22-year-old from Motlolo village in Limpopo, successfully completed her Bachelor of Development Studies at the University of Mpumalanga.
Displaying her commitment to academic excellence, she is now pursuing an Honours degree in the same field of study.
This further emphasizes Khomotso’s determination and resilience in the face of overwhelming personal tragedy.
UNIVERSITY’S GRADUATION CEREMONIES
The University of Mpumalanga held its graduation ceremonies on May 12th and 13th, 2023, to commemorate the accomplishments of students who had completed their qualifications during the previous academic year.
These events were intended to be a joyous occasion for graduates and their families, but the untimely accident cast a shadow over the celebrations, reminding everyone of the fragility of life.
UPDATE ON OTHER TRAGIC ACCIDENTS
The car accident that claimed the lives of Khomotso’s family members is not an isolated incident.
Recent reports have highlighted the tragic loss of life in car accidents, including the death of a Limpopo chief and another Grade 12 marker who perished while returning home from a marking center.
These incidents serve as a somber reminder of the dangers on the road and the importance of promoting road safety to prevent such devastating events from occurring.
SAFE RETURN OF MISSING UNIVERSITY STUDENT
In a separate incident, a missing university student was found unharmed at her new boyfriend’s residence.
While unrelated to the tragic car accident, this news offers a glimmer of relief amid the recent string of unfortunate events.