Premier Ndlovu dismayed by the murder of Grade 12 learner at Kanyamazane
17 March 2025The Mpumalanga Premier, Mr Mandla Ndlovu is dismayed by the murder of a Grade 12 learner, Amanda Masango of Kanyamazane, outside Mbombela. The South African Police Services (SAPS) confirmed the incident and have since arrested a 23 year old suspect.
According to the information by the SAPS, the body of the 17 year old learner was recovered at a house in Extension 16 at Kanyamazane, after an inquest was opened. The learner was on her way to school when the incident occurred on Friday.
Premier Ndlovu has called on the criminal justice to act decisively against the perpetrators. “It is extremely disheartening to learn of such a heinous crime where an innocent learner was brutally murdered. This atrocity and many others, emphasize the need to act harshly against the perpetrators, until every child is safe in their homes and in every street corner,” Premier Ndlovu stated.
Recently the Premier led various state institutions and civil society structures to the launch of a Provincial Council for Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in Secunda, to intensify the fight against such cases. The structure is assigned to coordinate prevention measures, facilitate strategic partnership with relevant stakeholders and revise plans. The Council is a pillar to support the Provincial Strategic Plan on GBVF, approved by the Executive Council (EXCO) last year.
Premier Ndlovu says the Kanyamazane incident is a signal that the fight against the various forms of crime is a societal issue, not for the government only. He further commended the police for their swift action, which led to the arrest of the suspect. “We applaud the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the police, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi and his hard working team of investigators, for the arrest of the 23 year old suspect without delay. We call for a thorough investigation in pursuit of justice, and for severe punishment to deter similar atrocities in the future,” he stressed.
The Premier conveyed condolences to the bereaved family. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and those dealing with grief under similar circumstances. May you find comfort during this dark and painful period,” Premier Ndlovu stated.
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Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Enquiries:
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Provincial Government’s Spokesperson: George Mthethwa
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E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za