HUNDREDS of people came to celebrate the life of the late activist, Loyiso Nkohla-Mabandla in Cape Town.
The commemoration took place on Saturday, 20 April, at the Vuyiseka High School in Lower Crossroads.
Residents, some visibly emotional, shared with Daily Sun their ongoing grief over Loyiso's death.
They said issues such as flooding homes and rampant rubbish in the township might have been avoided under Loyiso's vigilant oversight.
Loyiso's widow, Nyameka KwaLunga Mabandla, expressed her decision to honour her husband's legacy alongside the community he deeply cared for.
She remembered the unwavering support from residents during her most challenging times.
"It's been a year since his passing. The people here today have been my pillar of strength over the past year, helping me through my sorrow. Their support is why I can stand strong today," Nyameka said.
She highlighted the collective effort of community leaders and residents who worked closely with Loyiso throughout the years, emphasising the day's focus on joy and remembrance.
She announced plans to make the commemoration an annual event, aiming to instill in their children an understanding of their father's character and values.
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A member of the Seskhona People's Movement Khangeka Xhonti, and a close associate of Loyiso, spoke of the enduring pain of his absence.
She credited Loyiso's efforts for the significant improvements in their living conditions, including the introduction of flushing toilets in the Kosovo squatter camp, a big contrast to the horrible sanitation issues they faced previously.
Resident of Strand, Nonzwakazi Vellem, remembered Loyiso's compassionate approach and his relentless advocacy for better living conditions.
Loyiso's elder sister, Thembela Mabandla, spoke of the overwhelming loss felt by the family and the irreplaceable void left by Loyiso's death.
She emphasised the family's ongoing love and respect for him, which was the driving force behind the day's celebration.
Hundreds of people wearing traditional clothes sang and danced, they also feasted on two cows which were slaughtered for the event and had umqhombothi [traditional beer].
Various local artists took to the stage and performed during the event.
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