Murder of respected farming leader shocks KwaZulu-Natal community

KwaZulu-Natal police are on the hunt for a gang of four males following a murder and robbery that unfolded in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg, on the evening of Boxing Day. African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA) in KZN chairperson Mbongeni Skhakhane was killed during the incident. 

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, police in Hilton are investigating a murder and house robbery. 

“It is reported that four males accosted a 50-year-old male with a firearm outside his house. They forced him inside the house, where there were other family members. He was shot twice, after which the suspects took valuable items from inside the house. The suspects left the scene with the deceased’s vehicle,” Magwaza said. 

He said no arrests have been made.

AFASA expressed deep shock and outrage following Skhakhane’s murder. 

AFASA national chairperson Molefe Mahape said: “Mr Skhakhane was not only a black farmer but also a respected leader. He served with distinction as the AFASA KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson for many years, working tirelessly to uplift emerging farmers and strengthen support for black farmers in the province.”

He said Skhakhane recently attended the AFASA Leadership and Strategic Partnership Conference. According to him, Skhakhane ensured that his Provincial Executive Committee contributed to the agenda and content and secured support from the KZN provincial government, including Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha Mthethwa and head of department Zibusiso Dlamini, for KZN members’ attendance. He also organised training for developing farmers in the province. This, he said, demonstrated his commitment to farmer development and building strategic partnerships.

Skhakhane also served on the AFASA National Executive Committee, where he was responsible for developing and implementing strategies to advance the cause of developing farmers across South Africa.

Mahape said: “His passing is not only a loss to KwaZulu-Natal but to the entire AFASA family and the agricultural sector at large.”  

AFASA, he said, strongly condemns this senseless and cowardly act of violence. "We call upon the South African Police Service to leave no stone unturned in their investigation, ensuring that those responsible are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice,” he said. 

DARD said Skhakhane will be remembered for his dedication to improving lives through farming and agricultural development. 

“Mr Skhakhane will always be remembered for his significant contribution to improving the lives of ordinary people through farming and agricultural development. His passing is indeed a great loss to the agricultural sector,” kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said. 

DA KZN Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson Sakhile Mngadi said the party condemns Skhakhane’s brutal and senseless killing. 

He said Skhakhane’s murder is a devastating loss to his family, AFASA fraternity and the agriculture sector. 

“A committed farmer and leader, Mr Skhakhane dedicated his life to empowering emerging farmers, strengthening food security, and advancing rural development in KZN. This heinous crime again exposes the growing vulnerability of farmers and farm workers. It is unacceptable that those who contribute to livelihoods, jobs and social cohesion continue to live and work under constant threat,” Mngadi said. 

The party, through Mngadi, urges the police to proceed with speed and resolve. A meticulous investigation is essential to ensure the swift capture and prosecution of those responsible.

uMngeni Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas expressed sadness and outrage over Skhakhane’s killing. 

“Mr Skhakhane was more than a leader in agriculture; he was a pillar of strength in the farming community, a mentor to emerging farmers, and a champion for rural development across the province. His dedication to empowering farmers and building inclusive growth in the agricultural sector made him a respected and admired figure. His loss is a devastating blow to his family, AFASA, the agricultural sector, and all South Africans who benefited from his leadership,” Pappas said. 

He expressed his deepest condolences to the Skhakhane family, his colleagues, the AFASA community, and all who knew and worked with him. "We hold them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly painful time,” he said. 

He said the municipality supports AFASA’s demand that the police conduct a swift and comprehensive investigation. 

“Those responsible must be promptly apprehended to face the maximum penalty under the law. Justice must be immediate and absolute. May Mr Skhakhane’s legacy of service, leadership, and empowerment continue to inspire us,” Pappas said. 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za