Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Writer
A senior Government delegation led by Bulilima Constituency legislator, Cde Dingumuzi Phuti, visited Plumtree District Hospital yesterday to offer support to one of the survivors of a brutal attack that claimed five lives in the Madlambudzi area last week. The attack, allegedly carried out by a man with suspected mental health issues, left the community in shock.
The suspect, identified by police as Phamani Sibanda (43), reportedly went on a violent rampage, attacking seven people with a Mopani log, a blunt object, and a sharp object. Five victims succumbed to their injuries, while two others — aged 90 and 41 — were hospitalised. The 41-year-old victim has since been discharged, while the 90-year-old, identified as Gogo Popoma Ngwenya, is in a stable condition at Plumtree District Hospital. Gogo Ngwenya’s husband was one of the five victims who died in the attack.
In a show of solidarity, the Government is set to provide funeral assistance for the deceased. The Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, is expected to officiate at the funeral service this Friday at Madlambudzi Hall.
Following his visit to the hospital, Deputy Minister Phuti expressed his condolences.
“I had gone to visit the sick. I managed to see ugogo, who is another Madlambudzi victim and wife to one of the deceased old man. We are mourning with her and the family in this difficult time,” said Deputy Minister Phuti.
Bulilima District Development Co-ordinator (DDC), Mr Onesimo Zogara, confirmed that burial arrangements are well underway.
“The funeral service will be held as planned on Friday at 2pm, nothing has changed. Today, we visited one of the victims with Hon Phuti at the hospital and she is in a stable condition. She suffered some fractures and we hope she will be discharged soon,” said Mr Zogara.
The Government delegation included several officials from various departments, highlighting the co-ordinated response to the tragedy. Among those present were Matabeleland South acting Director of Local Government and Public Works, Mr Zachariah Jusa, Zanu-PF National Women’s League member Cde Siphilisiwe Nhawira, Plumtree’s District Medical Officer, Mr Joe Nganunu and Bulilima District Social Welfare Officer, Mr Ngwenya.
