After a painful seven-month delay, two-year-old Kamogelo Nthakong, who tragically died in a shack fire in Nelmapius near Pretoria last October, was finally laid to rest this morning.
The grieving family faced numerous challenges, including prolonged DNA testing delays and financial struggles, before community organizations stepped in to assist with funeral arrangements.
A Prolonged Ordeal
Kamogelo’s body remained in a forensic mortuary for months as her parents, unable to afford burial costs, waited for DNA test results. The parents were repeatedly turned away by officials before tests were finally conducted in March, with results only released in April.
Community Steps In
With no means to bury their child, the family received crucial support from civic organizations, including Soil of Africa, which provided a casket, burial plot, and tombstone. Other sponsors, such as Erare Federal Pala and Big Save, contributed groceries and logistical assistance.
Bongani Ramontja, chairperson of Soil of Africa, described the journey as “very difficult,” emphasizing the trauma the family endured. “We organized counseling for them because this has been deeply traumatic,” he said.
A Mother’s Grief
Kamogelo’s mother expressed gratitude to those who helped but broke down while speaking to reporters. “If Soil of Africa didn’t come through, I don’t know what I would have done,” she said.
Local authorities reportedly offered minimal assistance, leaving the family dependent on community support.
A Call for Change
The case has highlighted systemic issues in handling indigent burials and bureaucratic delays in forensic processes. As mourners gathered to bid farewell to Kamogelo, questions remain about how many other families face similar struggles.
“This child deserved dignity,” Ramontja said. “We must do better for our communities.”
The funeral proceedings concluded this morning, bringing a somber close to a tragedy that has resonated across Pretoria.
