KwaDukuza Official Found Dead, Sparking Investigation

Authorities are investigating the death of a KwaDukuza municipality official, Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane, who was discovered in her vehicle. The circumstances surrounding her death have prompted concern, igniting calls for justice and a thorough examination of the case.

Details of the Incident

Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane, a 32-year-old manager, handled intergovernmental relations and protocol in the mayor’s office. She was found deceased on a road between Darnall and Zinkwazi on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast.

Mayor Muzi Ngidi expressed his shock. He recalled attending a school function with her the day before. They had planned to meet at an outreach event on Friday, which he had to cancel upon learning of her death.

“We had a conversation and agreed to meet on Friday in ward 7 at an outreach event as it is Youth Month. On receiving the news I could not go on and decided to cancel my engagements for the day,”

—Muzi Ngidi, Mayor

According to a 2024 report by the World Health Organization, violence against women remains a global issue, with nearly one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence, demonstrating the widespread need for action (World Health Organization).

Remembering Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane

The municipality highlighted Mashabane’s kindness, respect, humility, and tenacity. They expressed their sadness that her “gentleness was met with brutality.” Mayor Ngidi has urged people to allow the law to take its course.

Those who worked with her will remember her “positive attitude and a professional demeanour.” The authorities have started the investigation to understand the circumstances of the death.