Tsakani – Community members gathered for a candlelight vigil in honour of Xabiso Kambi (30), who was shot and killed during an armed robbery on New Year’s Eve.The vigil was held in the Emaxhoseni section of Tsakani, where residents came together to commemorate her life through prayer, singing, and words of encouragement.The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as mourners reflected on the loss of a young woman described as vibrant and fearless.“My mother stormed into the house when she broke the news that Xabiso had been shot,” said her step-sister, Lindokuhle Moyo.“I thought she had been shot in the leg or arm, maybe to scare her off“Instead, she was shot and killed right outside our family shop, as if she were a thief.“She did not deserve to die like this. When I arrived at the scene, she was lying on her back, and I could clearly see the bullet holes.”
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Moyo described her sister as a free-spirited soul who was full of life and said they went everywhere together, creating memories she will forever cherish.Community member Thoko Madonsela-Modise opened her address with scripture, offering words of comfort to the grieving family.She urged them to remain strong in faith, steadfast in prayer, and to seek guidance from God during this difficult time.“We know the family is going through a lot, and we can see their pain,” she said“We saw great potential in Xabiso and believed she would one day advocate for all of us.”She further called on the community to stand up and protect women against acts of violence.Xabiso’s friends also spoke fondly of her, describing her as a bubbly person who always laughed and spread joy.Her aunt, Sibongile Kambi, emotionally recounted the horrific scene she encountered and reflected on Xabiso’s strength.
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“Xabiso ran after the suspects because I taught her to be a fighter.“She was dark-skinned, had a deep voice, and was bullied from a young age because of her complexion.“No matter how many times we reported the bullying to the school, it never stopped,” she explained.“Eventually, her father and I had to teach her how to fight and advocate for herself.“She learned to stand up for herself to the point where the school would call us to say she had beaten another child. By then, we understood why. From that day until the end, she fought for herself.”Sibongile called for justice, saying Xabiso’s spirit would continue to fight for what is right.CPF chairperson Mncedisi Somyo assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working collaboratively with various stakeholders to ensure justice is served.“We will not publicly share our findings, as this may compromise the case.“As we gather here, the perpetrators may be among us. But rest assured, the police are doing their job. Justice will be served,” said Somyo.
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