KwaZulu-Natal police have launched a manhunt for four suspects following the brutal murder of African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA) KwaZulu-Natal chairperson Mbongeni Skhakhane during a house robbery in Sweetwaters, Pietermaritzburg, on the evening of Boxing Day.
According to KZN police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, officers in Hilton are investigating a case of murder and house robbery.
“It is reported that four males accosted a 50-year-old male with a firearm outside his house. They forced him inside the house, where there were other family members. He was shot twice, after which the suspects took valuable items from inside the house and fled with the deceased’s vehicle,” Magwaza said.
No arrests have been made at this stage.
AFASA Condemns ‘Cowardly’ Killing
AFASA expressed deep shock and outrage at Skhakhane’s killing, describing him as a dedicated leader and champion for emerging farmers.
AFASA national chairperson Molefe Mahape said Skhakhane played a pivotal role in uplifting black farmers in the province.
“Mr Skhakhane was not only a black farmer but also a respected leader. He served with distinction as the AFASA KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson for many years, working tirelessly to uplift emerging farmers and strengthen support for black farmers,” Mahape said.
He added that Skhakhane recently attended the AFASA Leadership and Strategic Partnership Conference, where he ensured strong participation from the KZN Provincial Executive Committee and secured support from the provincial government, including the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).
National and Provincial Impact
Skhakhane also served on the AFASA National Executive Committee, where he was responsible for developing and implementing strategies to advance the interests of developing farmers across South Africa.
“His passing is not only a loss to KwaZulu-Natal but to the entire AFASA family and the agricultural sector at large,” Mahape said.
AFASA has called on the South African Police Service to act swiftly to bring those responsible to justice.
Tributes From Government and Political Parties
KwaZulu-Natal DARD MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha Mthethwa said Skhakhane would be remembered for his contribution to farming and rural development.
“Mr Skhakhane will always be remembered for his significant contribution to improving the lives of ordinary people through farming and agricultural development. His passing is indeed a great loss to the agricultural sector,” she said.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KZN also condemned the killing. Party spokesperson Sakhile Mngadi described the murder as a devastating blow to food security and rural development.
“This heinous crime again exposes the growing vulnerability of farmers and farm workers. It is unacceptable that those who contribute to livelihoods, jobs and social cohesion continue to live and work under constant threat,” Mngadi said.
uMngeni Municipality Reacts
uMngeni Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas expressed sadness and outrage over Skhakhane’s death, describing him as a pillar of the farming community.
“Mr Skhakhane was more than a leader in agriculture; he was a mentor to emerging farmers and a champion for rural development across the province,” Pappas said.
He offered condolences to the Skhakhane family, AFASA members, and the broader agricultural community, and urged police to ensure a thorough investigation.
“Those responsible must be promptly apprehended to face the maximum penalty under the law. Justice must be immediate and absolute,” Pappas said.
Investigation Continues
Police have appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as the search for the suspects continues.
