Well-known teacher (95) laid to rest

By Victor Mukwevho

One of the oldest and most revered teachers from the Vhembe District, Mr Rau- vhona Philemon Tanzwani, was laid to rest at Khubvi village on Saturday morning (25 February). He was known by many as an educational pioneer as he was among the first teachers to come from Khubvi, near Thohoyandou.

Born in the village of Khubvi in 1928, Tanzwani started his own schooling at a local primary school before progressing to Mphaphuli Secondary School. In 1958, he qualified as a teacher from the old Vendaland Institution, now known as Tshisimani TVET College, and started teaching the following year (1959).

Tanzwani worked at many schools, including Tshiseluselu, Mianzwi, Rammbuda, Lukau, Tshidziki, Tshamavhudzi, Luvhone, and Mbulu, and was also the principal of Ndiitwani Primary School.

During his long teaching career, he produced many students who, today, occupy top positions in prominent companies and the government. He was also the father of one of the best football players in the country, Livhuwani James Tanzwani, known as Bonndo by many football fans. Sadly, the football star passed away a few years ago.

Tanzwani was a member of the Salvation Army Church. He had four wives, 22 children and many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.