Sindane praised for his dedication in promoting IsiNdebele language

The funeral service of late Ikwekwezi FM news bulletin anchor and writer, Themba Sindane.

The South African Broadcaster Corporation (SABC) Editor for Radio News and Current Affairs, Aubrey Setjie has hailed IsiNdebele news anchor Themba Sindane as a colleague who made a significant contribution to the Ikwekwezi FM news desk.

Tributes continue to pour in for Sindane.

His funeral service is taking place today at KwaPhaahla Community Hall in Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga.

The seasoned broadcaster passed away a week ago at the age of 46, after a short illness.

Setjie says the newsroom will never be the same without Sindane.

“It’s been a very difficult week, especially in the office – you could slowly start feeling that we’ve lost somebody. Themba was a very hard-working person but very calm and I think he left a very profound gap for IsiNdebele,” adds Setjie.

Meanwhile, Ikwekwezi FM Station Manager Nkosinathi Ntuli has praised Themba Sindane’s dedication to promoting the IsiNdebele language and ensuring its survival for future generations.

Speaking at Sindane’s funeral service, Ntuli described him as loving and respectful.

Ntuli says his passing leaves a void that cannot be easily filled.

Ntuli has emphasised that the station has lost an invaluable treasure in Sindane, maintaining that IsiNdebele is one of those languages that are not spoken by too many people in the country.

“We need every microphone we can get, every person we can have to teach and assist us in preserving the language. Themba is one of those that were so diligent, that was so hardworking, that did quite a lot for us, way beyond the microphone, way beyond the station itself. So, the preservation of IsiNdebele in the and the development of the language, and its people has suffered a great deal. So, we are truly saddened by the passing of Themba,” says Ntuli.

Video | Ikwekwezi FM anchor Themba Sindane to be laid to rest in Mpumalanga:

Similarly, Sindane’s brothers have described him as loving, respectful and devoted to his family.

His brothers, Bafana and Thokozani Sindane, shared fond memories during the funeral service.

“I had special moments with my brother, there are so many things I remember when I was attending my Diploma of ICT in North West, my brother was there for me and supported me financially. Themba was one of the coolest people, he was a forgiving person, loving music especially gospel music,” says one of the brothers.

Video | Seasoned broadcaster Sindane to be laid to rest: