A respected Knysna man murdered

KNYSNA NEWS – The death of beloved and revered Knysna businessman Mawande Kondlo is sending shockwaves through the community, in particular the town's township tourism industry.

Kondlo's body was found at Bokkoppie, near the Uniondale Road (R339), on Monday 17 January at about 18:50.

"Preliminary investigation reveals that an off-duty police official discovered the body of the man, hands and legs tied with a cloth," said Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies.

"It was later discovered that the victim had a wound to the head. He was declared dead by paramedics on the scene."

Spies said a case of murder has been opened for further investigation. No one has been arrested yet, and the cause of death cannot be disclosed as the case is still at an early stage.

Spies requested that anyone with information that could assist the police with the investigation should contact the investigating officer, Sgt Vusumzi Xokozela, on 044 302 6652 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

"All information would be treated with the utmost confidentiality," he said.

Mawande Kondlo

Kondlo's death is felt by many. He was very influential in the establishment and development of Knysna's township tourism industry. He started his own business, Wandu Tours and Stays, from scratch, and has grown it into a highly regarded establishment that is in great demand with tourists.

"We have people who travel from overseas and specifically request to see Mawande because he's been recommended or they've heard of him via word of mouth," said Visit Knysna tourism information officer Thozeka Sikali.

"He built his business up from nothing. No one can say they 'made' Mawande. He made himself." She said he was important to fellow black business owners.

"He inspired so many small businesses, in particular black-owned businesses. He proved that it can be done, he was an example and a shining light for them."

One such person is Vuvu Ralushe, whom Mawande mentored for many years. "I will always remember him as a leader, a fighter. Someone who was an inspiration for the community, and someone who helped me with my growth in the hospitality industry, every step of the way," Ralushe said. "I am incredibly thankful for the times we could spend together."

Mawande also inspired Anita Best, a local tourist guide and tour operator. "He understood and knew how hard it was to start a business from scratch, so he always wanted to uplift and lend a hand to other businesses," she said. "He inspired my and so many others' development within the hospitality sector, and I will miss him so much."

Mawande Yengwa explains why Kondlo made such a big impact. "He was one of very few people that saw the opportunity and tapped into the potential of township tourism," he said. "Mawande paved the way for many others, and his loss will be felt right around the town, not only in the tourism industry."

Kondlo is survived by his three children, Wandukhanye (15), Wanduchume (13) and Wandumtha (9), and his widow Penny Kondlo. "It's an incredibly difficult time for us all, especially the children," Penny said.

"I will remember his incredible hard work and amazing love for his kids. I will remember him for his consistency; he never backed down even when times were tough. He was a person with a vision and ambition, he was such a hard worker who was also very attentive to other people, and a man of religion. He was such a dedicated father and we will miss him dearly."

Mawande Kondlo hard at work.