KARABO REMEMBERED
‘She was full of energy, full of life and a conqueror’
The sounds of African hymns echoed through the Diepkloof Multipurpose Sports Centre in Soweto as hundreds of people packed the hall to remember the life of Karabo Mokoena.
The bubbly 22-year-old was found burnt beyond recognition in Bramley, Johannesburg, on April 29 – two days after her disappearance – allegedly murdered by her boyfriend Sandile Mantsoe.
Family and friends described her as an energetic and God-fearing young woman who lived life to the fullest.
Her high school friend Nozizwe Dube described her as a conqueror and a person full of life. “Karabo was always happy and full of energy, she was a bubbly character who would sometimes mimic teachers at school. We always laughed when we were with her.”
Her childhood friend Thando Nghona gave a moving rendition of In the Shadow (of Your Wings) by Joyous Celebration singer Ntokozo Mbambo.
Another friend, Neo Mohlabane, said when she saw her the weekend before she disappeared, Mokoena had told her: “I’m living testimony that there’s God. He tried to finish me.”
This was after she was allegedly assaulted by her boyfriend.
Among the mourners were high-profile citizens including
How many Karabos must be there before men stand up and say, ‘it’s enough?’ Patrick Shai VETERAN ACTOR
Struggle icon Andrew Mlangeni, former Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba, Gauteng MEC for education Panyaza Lesufi and gospel artist Neyi Zimu, who sang his hit song Jehova ke Tshepile Wena.
Veteran actor Patrick Shai said it was time men started having confessions with men.
“If we don’t speak to ourselves as men, who else is going to speak to us. How many dialogues must we have? How many forums do we have? Men don’t come forward. How many Karabos must be there before men stand up and say, ‘It’s enough?’,” asked Shai.