Birthday tributes to caring official

ARRIVE Alive provincial spokesman Tshepo Machaea was praised at his 50th birthday party at the weekend.

Apart from being one of the most accessible and hard-working government spokespersons in the province, some of the guests said, he is known for his charitable work.

Among those who attended his birthday party at O R Tambo district municipality’s main hall were Communications Deputy Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, health MEC Dr Phumza Dyantyi, rural development and agrarian reform MEC Mlibo Qoboshiyane, and Elundini municipality mayor Nomasomi Mshuqwana.

Speakers described the softspoken father of seven as a community builder, a father figure, a devoted man of God and a blessing to poor people.

“We need more people like him,” said Mnyamezeli Madolo, station manager of Unitra Community Radio where Machaea hosts a weekly show.

Mthatha traditional leader Jonas Ndzambule described Machaea as a man of many talents.

“He has paid for the funerals of many poor [people],” Ndzambule said.

“He donates where it’s needed and has sent many young people to school.”

Qoboshiyane called Machaea a champion of the poor and thanked him for serving the people.

Machaea’s 20-year-old son Tshepang described his father as a disciplinarian – with a sense of humour – who likes spending time with his family.

Machaea’s eldest sister Ntateleng Khauoe said that growing up in a family of 10 children had probably shaped her brother’s philanthropic ways.

“We did not have much and when our father bought an apple, it would be divided into 10 pieces.

“I guess he has carried that with him into adulthood,” she said.

Daily Dispatch Mthatha bureau chief Lulamile Feni praised him for being one of the most effective government spokespersons in the province.

“Even if you call him on Sunday when he has to go to church, he will always give you information and on time so that you can meet deadlines.”

Machaea said he believed his gift of giving came from God. —