By Doreen Mokgolo
The executive mayor of Ekurhuleni, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, has confirmed that the legendary actress Connie Chiume will receive a civic funeral.
Xhakaza confirmed this during his visit to Chiume’s family in Norkem, Kempton Park, on Friday.
The Gomora and Black Panther actress passed away on August 6 at the Netcare Garden City Hospital in Mayfair at 72.
Xhakaza said Chiume qualified for civic funeral “due to her personal development, community work, and leadership roles. She has won numerous awards for her work over the years.
“She is a person of high stature and deserves to be honoured by the city,” he said.
The mayor added that the late actress had represented and promoted Ekurhuleni abroad, especially in Texas.
“We had an opportunity through her to meet with the leadership in Texas to build relations based on cultural and educational exchanges and economic opportunities.
“Through her efforts, we were able to host the mayor of Houston, America, and began talks to establish direct flights from OR Tambo Airport to Texas.
“This would have gone a long way in promoting economic relations, culture, and business ties. That is what we call having the city in her DNA,” he said.
Xhakaza said that, over the years, Ekurhuleni had bestowed many accolades on Chiume to honour her outstanding performances, humanity, and contributions to societal development.
Family spokesperson Percy Vilakazi said: “Mam Connie was the family’s matriarch and our support structure.
“We will remember her for her free spirit and nurturing ways toward everyone around her.
“On set, during cold days, she would bring warm soup and dombolo for the cast to ensure they stayed warm.
“There was never a moment in her life when she wanted to be treated like a celebrity,” he said.
The family will meet to finalise the date of her memorial service and funeral.
Pictured above: Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, the executive mayor of Ekurhuleni.
Source: Doreen Mokgolo
