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Government Vow to Assist Family in Repatriation of Remains of Buhle Bhengu
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Date: 2021-10-04 08:49:41

Government Vow to Assist Family in Repatriation of Remains of Buhle Bhengu

PRESS RELEASE
 
12 March 2019
 
Government Vow to Assist Family in Repatriation of Remains of Buhle Bhengu
 
The KwaZulu-Natal Government together with eThekwini Municipality has pledged to do everything in their power to ensure that the remains of a South African citizen, Buhle Bhengu, are successfully repatriated to the country so she can be given a dignified funeral.
 
Today, 12 March, Mayor Zandile Gumede accompanied MEC for Economic Development, Hon. Sihle Zikalala to pay their respects and offer their support to the Bhengu family in Umlazi H Section.
 
Zikalala said that the KZN Government had engaged the National Department of International Relations and Co-operatives (DIRCO) for them to assist in repatriating the remains of the late Buhle Bhengu. “As of this morning we were informed by DIRCO that our High Commission in Kingston is liaising with authorities in the Bahamas to ensure that the mortal remains are returned to South Africa as opposed to cremation. We will update the family once there is new information,” said Zikalala.
 
Mayor Zandile Gumede extended her gratitude to all friends, community and role players who have supported the family during this difficult time and ensured that this matter receives the attention it deserves. “Losing a loved one is difficult for anyone. For that pain to be compounded by the trauma of not being able to bury your loved one is a lot to deal with. We will continue to support the family and work tirelessly until the remains of their beloved daughter are safely brought back home,” said Gumede.
 
Buhle Bhengu was reportedly working for the MSC Cruise when she passed away in the Bahamas, USA after a short illness. Her family has been struggling to have her remains repatriated since her death in February 2019.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For more information contact the Municipal Spokesperson on 060 966 4220.
 
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