MBOMBELA – Ligwalagwala FM radio DJ, Given Mathabela, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late daughter, Lusanda Mathabela, on what would have been her 20th birthday.
Mathabela’s life was brutally cut short in a violent attack at her home in Mattafin, Mbombela, on November 3, 2025. She was allegedly stabbed multiple times by her ex-boyfriend and his accomplice, both 18 years old at the time, during a suspected break-in.The two suspects were apprehended at the scene and have been charged with murder. They are currently in custody, with the case postponed to January 28, 2026.
The radio DJ took to social media today, to express his grief and love for his daughter saying, “Happy birthday to you yet you are not here makes no sense, the way you couldn’t wait to turn 20 so you are no longer a teenager, all the dreams and plans you had. I don’t even know how to approach this day without you my angel. My eyes are full of tears instead of laughter, your siblings are inconsolable, those who murdered you destroyed us. Happy birthday my hope, bafo. I love you with all my heart, continue to rest in peace, I will live your dreams for you.”
READ | Radio DJ Given Mathabela lays daughter, Lusanda to rest
In the wake of Mathabela’s tragic death, her family has announced plans to launch the “Lusanda Hope Mathabela Foundation” aimed at fighting gender-based violence.
“They took her life, but they’ll never silence her legacy,” said the radio DJ. The foundation seeks to promote action, unity, and protection for young girls, with the goal of creating a society where every young girl can grow up safe, heard, and valued.
“Lusanda Hope Mathabela may have been taken from us through gender-based violence, but her spirit will live on through action, unity, and protection for young girls everywhere. Through the Foundation, we rise to say enough is enough. We choose to protect our daughters, support survivors, and stand together as a society that refuses to look away,”he added.
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The suspects are currently in custody, with the case postponed to Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
