By Doreen Mokgolo
Katlego Olifant, the sixth child from Naledi, Soweto, who ate poisoned snacks, passed away in hospital on Sunday morning.
The 7-year-old had been in ICU at Lesedi Hospital for a week, fighting for his life after eating the snacks with his friends.
His death was announced at the funeral of four other children who died after consuming the same snacks.
Another friend, Zinhle Maama (7), was buried the day before.
A moment of silence was held in Katlego’s honour during the service.
Ward councillor Lazarus Mmota said he received the news while attending the funeral.
“They told me that Koketso succumbed to the poison that morning. We are heartbroken as the community, we were hoping he would survive so that he would help us make sense of what happened,” he said.
Katlego’s mother, Lydia Olifant, had been holding on to hope that her son would recover.
“Doctors told me there was too much damage and encouraged me to pray hard, but I had hope. I saw him fighting throughout the week. All I want is justice for our children—those responsible must be held accountable,” she said.
The group of children, who lived in the same block, shared snacks known as “brown dash” before falling ill. They were rushed to local hospitals but were declared dead on arrival.
Gauteng MEC for Education Matome Chiloane expressed his sadness over Katlego’s passing.
“Indeed this is sad news, we wish to convey condolences to the family and the school community. We will provide psycho-social support to the family, learners, and staff during this difficult period.”
Pictured above: The funeral of the four young children who died after eating poisoned snacks in Naledi.
Source: Supplied
