Heartbreak as Family Faces Burial Costs After Devastating Accident

A Community in Mourning

Nothing can prepare a family for the loss of loved ones, let alone the devastating loss of four members in a single day. This tragic reality has struck the Thosi and Hlungwane families, who are grappling with the deaths of Hlamulo Thosi (34), his wife Vutomi (31), and their two young children, Nhlanganiso (11) and Andzo (6). The family perished in a horrific head-on collision on the R81 road in Limpopo on Sunday, 12 January.

The accident has sent shockwaves through Botsoleni Village, where the family resided. Villagers describe the Thosi family as kind-hearted, dedicated, and actively involved in their community. Close friends and neighbors recall Hlamulo’s commitment to his work and family, Vutomi’s warm and engaging personality, and the children’s cheerful nature and bright futures.

#### Family Devastation
Joseph Hlungwane, a family spokesperson, expressed the family’s heartbreak. “Losing all four at once is unbearable. You expect your children to carry your name forward, but now the family is gone, and it’s hard to accept,” he said.

The loss has also left the community reeling, with widespread mourning and an outpouring of grief. As the family prepares for a mass funeral on Saturday, 25 January, they face not only emotional turmoil but also financial hardship.

#### Financial Struggles for Burial
The funeral is expected to draw a large crowd, with family members, friends, and villagers gathering to pay their respects. However, the families are struggling to secure enough funds to give their loved ones a dignified send-off.

While a local mortuary has generously offered to assist with burial services free of charge, additional resources are needed for catering and other funeral expenses. “We’re expecting many people, and with our current budget, we cannot provide for everyone,” Joseph explained.

#### Appeal for Assistance
The families are now appealing to Good Samaritans for help. They hope that contributions from the public will allow them to honor their loved ones in a way that reflects the respect and love the family deserves.

Individuals or organizations willing to assist can contact Joseph directly at **082 565 6079**.

#### A Painful Farewell
The mass funeral will mark the conclusion of an extraordinarily painful chapter for the Thosi and Hlungwane families, as well as the Botsoleni community. The accident is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of supporting one another in times of immense loss.