Johannesburg – A search and rescue mission in Mozambique has found the remains of Ekhuruleni Roads and Transport Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), Andile Mgwevu, whose car was swept away in a flood.
The remains of the 40-year-old were recovered in southern Mozambique, bringing a tragic end to a search that spanned more than a week.
MMC Mngwevu went missing earlier this month when the vehicle he was traveling in was swept away by severe floodwaters in the Chokwé area amid heavy downpours that have displaced hundreds of thousands across the region.
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The discovery of the MMC’s remains was confirmed late Tuesday, 27 January 2026, by his family in a statement expressing “deep sorrow and profound sadness” over the loss of the dedicated public servant, husband, and father.
“Throughout his life, he made a difference in people’s lives through his selfless service, principled leadership, and genuine care for the well-being of those around him,” the family said.
They described his passing as leaving “an irreplaceable void,” while emphasizing that his legacy of humility, compassion, and commitment to community service would endure.
The family requested privacy as they grieve and noted that details on memorial and funeral arrangements, including repatriation of the remains, would be shared in due course.
Initial accounts indicate the group, which may have included up to five occupants, was caught in fast-moving waters during a trip—described in some reports as an official delegation and in others as a personal outing with friends.
One survivor from the incident assisted in the search efforts, though the identities of the other victims have not yet been publicly confirmed
The search-and-rescue mission involved collaboration between South African teams and Mozambican authorities, highlighting the cross-border impact of the floods that have ravaged infrastructure and communities in southern Mozambique.
Mngwevu’s remains were found alongside those of three others in the submerged vehicle, according to reports from South African authorities involved in the operation.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga, conveyed condolences and pledged support for the affected families: “We will be supporting the families during this difficult time, and once again we convey our deepest condolences to the families of the MMC together with the persons he was with in the vehicle.”
Mngwevu, a prominent figure in the African National Congress (ANC) leadership in Ekurhuleni, was known for his work in infrastructure and transport development.
Tributes were pouring in from colleagues and the broader community.
The ANC said it was “saddened by the tragic passing” of MMC Mngwevu, who also served as the Leader of Government Business in the City of Ekurhuleni council in Gauteng.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family of Cde. Mngwevu, those of his companions who perished alongside him, his colleagues in the City of Ekurhuleni, as well as the communities he served,” stated the ANC Greater Tshwane Regional Executive.
“May his soul and those who perished with him rest in peace.”
Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has expressed shock and great sadness at the untimely passing of MMC Mngwevu.
“Councillor Mngwevu, was a committed public servant who dedicated his life to improving mobility, infrastructure development, and service delivery for the people he served,” said Mayor Xhakaza.
“His passing is a profound loss to the City, the Council, and the broader community.
“He was a critical member of the mayoral committee who paid attention to detail and ensured that the community of Ekurhuleni’s interests were looked after.”
The Ekurhuleni Mayor, on behalf of the City’s leadership, extended heartfelt condolences to the Mngwevu family, friends, colleagues, and all those affected by this tragic loss.
“We stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and mourn the loss of a dedicated leader whose contribution to public service will forever be remembered,” Mayor Xhakaza said.
The mayor also sends heartfelt condolences to the families of the three other people who were travelling with Cllr Mngwevu at the time of the incident
Yesterday, Tuesday, 27 January 2026, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Executive Mayor Xhakaza, together with the MMC of finance, visited the families of all the deceased to offer condolences and pay their last respects.
“The City also conveys its sympathies to the people of Mozambique who have been affected by the recent floods and joins them in mourning the lives lost as a result of this tragedy,” the mayor said.
