Denlyn Mall in Mamelodi, home to journalist Aserie Ndlovu’s community radio station, Capital Live FM, has announced plans to establish a charity foundation in his honour.
The announcement was made earlier today by Centre Manager Sipho Khumalo during a memorial gathering for Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdluli. The couple’s tragic disappearance has deeply affected the local community.
Khumalo, reflected on his close bond with Ndlovu, describing their relationship as one that felt more like brotherhood than business.
He said the mall is committed to preserving Ndlovu’s legacy and ensuring that his work continues to uplift and empower the Mamelodi community.
“We want to play a role in preserving his legacy; Maybe starting a foundation that will make sure that his life and footprint, and every contribution that he has made in the community of Mamelodi doesn’t just go down the drain,” says Khumalo.
Earlier this month, police discovered two bodies in an open field in Limpopo, believed to be those of missing journalist and his partner. The discovery was made after one of the suspects in the case led authorities to the site.
The couple had been missing since early February, prompting an intense months-long search by police and growing concern from the community.
Four suspects have been charged in connection with their disappearance and murder. Two of them are expected to apply for bail on the 29th of May.
In a moving tribute, Capital Live FM station manager Mpho Hadzi remembered Ndlovu as a mentor and role model. He said he cherishes the life lessons Ndlovu imparted, especially the value of working hard to earn a living rather than relying on handouts.
“He once said to me: You never ask for money when you can make money. Always be at your best, always do the best you can, be truthful and faithful to what you aim to achieve. Just do the work,” says Hadzi.
Hadzi also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support the station’s staff has received since Ndlovu’s disappearance. He acknowledged the progress in the investigation, though he remarked that the developments are undeserved.
Ndlovu’s family says they are struggling to come to terms with the tragic turn of events, describing him as a pillar of support who was always there when they needed him most.
“It’s very painful for us all, especially for my mother; she isn’t coping too well. Aserie was the one helping me with a lot. He helped me get my learners’ license and drivers license,” says Ndlovu’s brother
Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, presided over the gathering and pledged the government’s full support to the Ndlovu and Mdluli families during their time of grief.
“We understand that you are going the most difficult period and we will endevour to walk with you in support through it all because through this unity that we are forging here today, we should be able to overcome all future challenges that continue to confront us. We are truly sorry for what has unfolded and have also been deeply cut by it,” says Deputy Minister Morolong.
The Mdluli family remembers Zodwa Mdluli as a sweet and humble woman whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Her eldest son, Treasure Mdluli, says the family has been shattered since the discovery of the two bodies believed to be Zodwa and her partner, Ndlovu.
He described his mother as someone who approached everyone with kindness and humility, and recalled her infectious laugh that brought joy to those around her.
“She was a very nice person. Calm, and down to Earth. At my age now, I cannot stand a womam shouting at me because she never raised her voice at me even once. So she was a very nice and loving person. She always loved laughing and was full of life,” says Mdluli.
Mdluli says that while the past few months have been incredibly difficult for the family, they have found some relief in the way his mother’s case has been handled with care and attention by the authorities.
Written by Odirile Rabalao
