The Harry Gwala District Municipality is in mourning following the passing of Cllr. Siphiwe Donutus Bekwa, who was laid to rest today, 17th of May 2026, at his homestead in ESbomvini Location.

Cllr. Bekwa’s life was one of service, humility, and commitment to the people of Harry Gwala and beyond. Born on 3 August 1962 at St. Apponanaris Hospital in Centocow, Esibovini, he began his education at Esibovini Primary School before continuing at Centocow Secondary, Lydia Seminary, and completing his matric at Nigel High School in Johannesburg.

In 2014, Cllr. Bekwa took his experience to national level, working for Parliament in Cape Town. He returned home in 2019 to serve the Harry Gwala District Municipality, where he became a Councillor, EXCO member, and Portfolio Head for the Water Services Department. In this role, he worked directly on ensuring communities had access to reliable water services, a critical part of the District’s mandate to protect lives and livelihoods during disasters and everyday challenges.

The funeral was attended by honourable and distinguished guests who came to support the Bekwa family, including Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Harry Gwala District Mayor Cllr. Z.D. Nxumalo, Local Mayor Cllr. Sindiswa P. Msomi, and their deputies. Their presence reflected the respect and high regard in which Cllr. Bekwa was held across the District.

Colleagues remember him as a calm, approachable leader who led by example. His work in the Water Services portfolio placed him at the center of the District’s efforts to strengthen infrastructure and respond to service delivery risks, including those discussed during the District’s annual risk assessment and disaster management sessions.

Beyond his official duties, Cllr. Bekwa was known as a humble man and a man of God. He leaves behind his wife, whom he married in 1995, his four sons, daughter, mother, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren.

The Harry Gwala District Municipality extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the communities he served. His contribution to local government, to the safety of leaders he protected, and to the residents of the District will not be forgotten.

Phumula Qubulashe, uyishile induku ebandla.🕊️🕊️🕊️

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