A Heartfelt Letter of Appreciation: Thank You for Standing with Us in Mourning
By Councillor Wilbert Rambanapasi
As I sit down to pen this letter, my heart is still heavy with grief, yet it is filled with immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness that my family and I received during the passing of my beloved son, Wilson Rambanapasi. Last Friday, our lives were forever changed when Wilson left us, and on Sunday, we laid him to rest in Hungwere Village, Tongogara, Shurugwi. The support we received during this trying time was overwhelming, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to those who stood with us.
First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Hon. E Mukaratigwa for his exemplary leadership, kindness, and generosity. He went above and beyond to ensure that our mourning period was made slightly more bearable. From organizing the chapel service to feeding the mourners and accompanying us to Shurugwi for the burial, his selflessness is a quality that inspires us all. To Mai Mukaratigwa, I also extend my gratitude for accompanying her husband to Shurugwi, your presence was deeply felt.
To the Mayors of Beitbridge (Councillor Pirato), Shurugwi (Mayor Machiya), Gweru (Councillor Chivhoko), and Zvishavane (Councillor Nyoni), I thank you for your financial and moral support. Your contributions helped alleviate some of the burdens we faced during this difficult time.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their generous support:
- DDC Mr. R Shangwa for providing a 200-seater tent, which accommodated our mourners comfortably.
- Mr. Tinos Chitsino of Ecosure for sponsoring two 100-seater tents and a PA system, your contribution was invaluable.
- Mr. P Mukono of Marian Group of Schools for providing transport and financial support, your kindness is deeply appreciated.
- Mr. R Sanya from Australia for financial assistance, your support from afar was felt deeply.
To my fellow councillors and staff at Tongogara Rural District Council, I thank you for your support and kindness. Special mention goes to:
- Mr. Matorofa, Environmental Officer, for driving me from Bulawayo to Harare, providing financial support in Harare, and overall kindness.
- Madam Rimai, Auditor, for financial support in Harare.
- Daison Chinoza, Grace Tibugare, and Cde Tibugare for financial aid.
I also extend my gratitude to Village Head Mr. P Hwengere for standing with us despite his own loss. Your presence meant a great deal to us.
To the government departments, ZANU PF DDC and Province, local authorities, and the Shurugwi Constituency community, I thank you for your support. Your presence and contributions helped us during a difficult time.
Special thanks to Nyaradzo for their services, which were conducted with dignity and respect.
Lastly, I would like to thank Hon. Mhuri (Shurugwi South) and Hon. Mpasi for their presence and words of comfort to me and my family. Your support was deeply appreciated. Hon. Nyathi and Amai, your presence meant a lot to me and my family.
To all who contributed in one way or another, I would like to say that your kindness and support brought comfort to our family during a difficult time. May God bless you all for your generosity and selflessness. Your actions are a testament to the power of community and the impact we can have when we come together to support one another.
Once again, thank you, and may God bless you all.
Councillor Wilbert Rambanapasi is the Councillor for Ward 12 in Tongogara, Shurugwi. He is also the Council Chairman for Tongogara Rural District Council. He writes in his own capacity.
