Andile Moshoeshoe
MOURNERS filled the Bhongweni Youth Centre in Kokstad to capacity as they bid a sad goodbye to their true friend Zamindlela Godlimpi and also shared their best moments with them.
Godlimpi was recently found dead with a gunshot wound at his home in Kokstad. Despite overwhelming grief at the funeral service on August 1, moments of celebration were shared by people who defined Godlimpi’s life by compassion, humility and selfless service.
Mourners also reflected on his legacy that will endure through the lives he touched while he was still alive, and the lasting contribution he made to the development of Kokstad.
Godlimpi worked as civil engineering manager at the Greater Kokstad Municipality. He previously worked as assistant manager for the project management unit in the Greater Kokstad Municipality and also manager for civil engineering within the Infrastructure and Technologies Services Department. At the funeral service, he was described as a problem-solver with a passion for community development.
Speakers said his career demonstrated excellence in the engineering field with a unique skill of managing municipal infrastructure projects, overseeing capital investments as well as better coordination of contractors and stakeholders. Other mourners travelled all the way from Johannesburg, East London, Durban and neighbouring towns to honour Godlimpi.
His friends and neighbours shared heartfelt tributes across social media, recounting the remarkable life he lived and the enduring kindness he extended to those around him.
They remembered him as a selfless man who consistently placed the needs of others before his own, carrying the burdens of his neighbours with quiet compassion and offering unwavering support whenever it was needed. His colleagues remembered him as a hardworking engineer whose passion for service extended beyond his profession and into the community he faithfully served.
Godlimpi’s passing did not only shock the Kokstad community, but the entire district of Harry Gwala and some in the Eastern Cape, especially politicians and government officials.
Among politicians attending the funeral service were cabinet ministers, ANC NEC members, members of parliament, members of the provincial legislature, municipal leaders and youth representatives.
ANC national chairperson Gwede Mantashe also gave his condolences to the family on behalf of the ANC.
