By John Ndlovu
The Author of Ndebele books such as iLifa Labobaba, Ulimi Lwethu, AbaseGuswini leZothamlilo,iHawu labafundi and many others has been buried in Bulawayo.
Phineas Ngobiwa Mnkandla died on Saturday at the age of 87, he is survived by his five children and fourteen grandchildren.
Mnkandla worked in the field of education for decades teaching iSiNdebele at schools like Christian Brothers College, Hillside Primary school, St Patricks(Gweru), Msiteli High school, Milton High School and Mpumelelo Primary school. He then retired fifteen years ago aged 72 years.
His funeral service was held at St John’s Cathedral and his remains were interred at West Park Cemetery on Wednesday.
Nhlanhla Mlilo a Ndebele scholar and Bulawayo resident described the late Phenias Mnkandla as a hero who taught and preserved Ndebele language.
“Lala ngokuthula Qhawe lethu.”
( Rest In Peace our Hero)
Lovemore Mhindu a former student of Milton High School bade farewell to Mnkandla by saying that the veteran educationist was a true son and father at Milton High school.
“A true Old Miltonian. May his soul rest in peace. ( Ouit ye like Men )”
Civic society activist Dumisani. O Nyongolo Nkomo added his expression on a Facebook post.
“Woke up to the news that my former teacher ,Phineas Ngobiwa Mnkandla had died .Mnkandla was one of the most inspirational teachers in my life .He taught me Ndebele at Milton High School and made it a joy to learn the subject .Interestingly he was the author of the book ” IHawu Labafundi which was our textbook .
When I was out of line he would say ” ngimtshaye yini bafana” with his stick pointing menacingly at me .If the class said ” umxolele Mnkandla he would say ” nona mfoka Mqabuko ” .
Reading Ndebele novels in class was fun with Mnkandla as he would stop the reader to explain certain historical or cultural concepts .In his soft voice he would say ” kudala bafana amatshe esancwebeka…….” .
He was an amazing story teller ,writer and teacher with an amazing grasp of history .His contribution to Ndebele literature and education in general will forever be remembered .
R.I.P my teacher .”