Vanderbijlpark tragedy: Two cousins described as devout churchgoers at funeral

Two cousins, who died in a scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark earlier this week, have been described as devout churchgoers who honoured their commitments.

Family and friends of seven-year-old Lesego Sefatsa and 18-year-old Phehello Motaung gathered in Sebokeng in the Vaal on Saturday for the pair’s funeral service.

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The two were among learners travelling in a taxi on Monday when the driver attempted to overtake several vehicles and collided with a truck.

Twelve learners were killed at the scene, with two others later succumbing to their injuries.

Hundreds of mourners, including teachers, church members and community residents, have gathered in Sebokeng to pay their final respects to the pair.

The funeral tent is filled with men and women dressed in white and blue uniforms of the Apostolic Church, where the two were active members.

While the mood was sombre, music from the brass band that Motaung was a part of appeared to lift spirits, as congregants swayed gently and sang hymns.

Sefatsa’s mother, Felani Mavundla, said both boys were dedicated churchgoers who honoured their commitments.

“Every Friday after school, he would go for band rehearsal, every weekend he would go to church.”

Mavundla said that her seven-year-old was bright and committed to his schoolwork.

“He asked me to put him in day care, and when I asked why, he said it’s because he wants them to help with homework so that when he gets home, he can either play or watch TV.”

Mavundla said that the loss remains difficult to comprehend as the family lays the two cousins to rest.

Band members remembered Motaung as a dedicated musician who never missed weekly practice.

One of his bandmates described the 18-year-old as a talented trumpeter who also played bass and drums.

“He liked bringing people together and being with his circle of friends. He was a happy person and wanted others to be happy too, and he was also very close with his brother; they always stuck together.”

Another band member said Motaung taught him how to play the trumpet and even played a song in his honour, celebrating his vibrant spirit and love for music.