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Richard Muponde, Plumtree Correspondent
THE Minister of Energy and Power Development, Ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo, has consoled the family of the late Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Lutho Tapela on the death of their daughter-in-law who passed on two weeks ago in South Africa.
Valerie Tapela was married to the late Senator Tapela’s son, Mr Taluka Jenkins Tapela “TJ” and based in South Africa where she passed on on 12 August after an illness. She was buried in Plumtree last week. Amb Moyo in his condolence message urged the family to be strong as it was the will of God.
“We have been shocked to learn of the untimely demise of your dear wife Valerie, a few days ago in South Africa. Such a tragedy is obviously unbearable and difficult to accept and comprehend.
It’s too much a burden for you to shoulder. The Bible teaches us that ‘He giveth and He taketh’. We have to accept this painful reality in full knowledge that she has been promoted to higher glory. Your loss is ours together.
We mourn and grieve together. We pray that the Almighty gives you enough strength and staying power. May her soul anchor and rest in eternal peace. Glory be to God,” said Amb Moyo who is also the Acting Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services.
The deceased Mrs Tapela’s brother-in-law, Mr Roy Tapela said her sister-in-law was a person who fought for equality in society and the work place.
“Her life in Cape Town has been a beautiful adventure that shaped the rest of her academic studies and interesting professional life.
She co-founded a consulting company The Brilliance With, where she advocated for the black professionals in the city. She also worked with Lockstep and Accelerate Cape Town. She furthered her studies at the University of Stellenbosch where she completed her Masters Degree in Psychology and Leadership, the two disciplines she has always been passionate about,” he said.
The late Mrs Tapela is survived by her husband TJ and four sons.
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