FUNANANI Mbedzi from Khubvi in Limpopo who was allegedly killed by her husband has been laid to rest at Khubvi graveyard.
The sombre funeral service was held at Freedas Sportsground where mourners cried and shared memories of Funanani on Sunday, 7 April.
Funanani, who was a Worship House gospel singer, was allegedly shot dead by her husband Eric Mundalamo (54), who's a well-known teacher. The incident happened during a church service at Makonde Shadani Village while singing with other worshippers.
Thousands of mourners, including her family, friends, and the community, came together to bid their final farewell to her.
Dignitaries, including Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Vhembe District Municipality Mayor Frieda Nkondo, paid their respects to the departed singer.
Fhatuwani Mphephu, the family spokesman, expressed gratitude to the mourners who have supported them throughout the week.
“She was not only a talented singer but also a skilled hairdresser and make-up artist. She leaves behind two children, one still in primary school and the elder one currently in grade 12,” said Fatuwani.
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He said they'd always remember her.
“She always wore a smile and was incredibly helpful to our family. She also took on the role of teaching her siblings,” he said.
Speaker after speaker at the funeral voiced their concerns about the escalating number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases and how Funanani's life positively impacted them.
They emphasised the need for pastors not to promote reconciliation in violent relationships.
MEC Ramathuba stressed the importance of working with the community to fight against GBV and femicide.
“We have to remind young women, married or not, that if they see signs of unhealthy obsession in their relationships, it's not love but a mental illness. If you see extreme jealousy which is at an extreme, leave while you can,” said the MEC.
She also raised concerns with the high number of GBV cases in the Thulamela Municipality.
“May Funi's soul rest in peace, and I say to her family and children, be comforted. It's only time and God's prayer that can help to heal them,” said the MEC.
Limpopo police spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, said the suspect, Mundalamo, made his first court appearance on Wednesday, 3 April and his case was postponed to 10 June 2024 for a formal bail application.
