ANDILE MOSHOESHOE

THE recent passing of renowned businesswoman Margreth Aloyse Shayo was a painful loss for the community of Kokstad. She left behind her legacies of innovation and community upliftment.

She passed on after a short illness in the South Coast area.

At the funeral service last Saturday, January 31, in Kokstad, speakers described her as a trailblazer who acted as a pillar for social and economic development. Others said she was a leader of hope to many young and upcoming business people. She owned a number of properties for business purposes, especially accommodation.

Greater Kokstad Municipality mayor Lwanda Madikizela said Shayo’s sudden death was a huge blow to the community.

“We have worked together with Shayo for a very long time and with a number of departments that have been utilising her facilities, as she was one of the most remarkable and outstanding business people,” stated Madikizela, adding that despite being a businesswoman, Shayo gave guidance and support to upcoming businesses without fearing that they would grow and become her competition.

Madikizela further said that Shayo was a woman who had love for the people, especially those who were striving for a better life.

“It was for this reason that we regarded her as one of our patriotic women who wanted to see people grow,” Madikizela added as he conveyed condolences to the family.

A ceremony to celebrate Shayo’s life and legacy will be held in Tanzania where she comes from. Her ashes will be scattered in Arusha and then proceed to Singida, home of the Mbulu tribe.

The Shayo family conveyed words of gratitude to members of the community that gave them support during this difficult time.