Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
BEITBRIDGE businessman and farmer, Mr Chris Nguluvhe, who died on New Year’s Eve, was laid to rest at his rural home in Makakavhule Village on Sunday.
Mr Nguluvhe, popularly known as Shule Shule, was 61 at the time of his death.
His burial attracted mourners from all walks of life, including political figures and business leaders, including some from South Africa.
Mr Nguluvhe passed away at a hospital in Polokwane, Limpopo Province, South Africa, after a short illness. His death left the Beitbridge community in shock, with many reflecting on his significant contributions to the border town and beyond.
In their gravesite eulogies, speakers described him as a selfless person who contributed to Beitbridge’s growth through his business and farming ventures.
“We have lost a strong man who was always willing to offer a helping hand to community members or sponsor community development projects,” said businessman, Mr Terry Mulowa.
“He was involved in many initiatives, including supporting our community radio station, Lotsha FM, local soccer teams and the customs clearing association. He had a passion for seeing local businessmen unite to address common challenges.”
Beitbridge West legislator, Cde Thusani Ndou, described Mr Nguluvhe as a great man who contributed selflessly to all development initiatives. He urged other businessmen to follow in his footsteps by supporting community-driven efforts to improve service delivery.
Chief Tshitaudze said Beitbridge had lost a man who respected traditional leaders and was actively involved in development issues in the border town.
Beitbridge East legislator, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, the late businessman’s older brother, expressed the family’s gratitude for the overwhelming support they received from the community during their time of loss.
Mr Nguluvhe was a trailblazer in Beitbridge, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community development. In 2002, he founded the Shule Shule Business Centre in Khwalu 1 suburb, which included the area’s first sports bar, a landmark venture.
His support for community initiatives extended to Beitbridge’s Lotsha FM radio station and the local football club, Dulibadzimu United FC. His philanthropic efforts touched many lives through various social responsibility programmes across the district.
A versatile entrepreneur, Mr Nguluvhe had business interests in several sectors, including customs clearing, trucking, livestock production, accommodation and fast food outlets. His contributions to these industries played a key role in driving economic activity in the border town.
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