Deputy President of South Africa, Paul Mashatile, collapsed on stage while delivering a keynote speech during the N’wamitwa Day Celebrations in Limpopo. The event took place on Saturday, 14 September, at Valoyi Cultural Village in N’wamitwa, a village located just outside Tzaneen. The Deputy President was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care following the sudden collapse.
The N’wamitwa Day Celebrations, a significant annual event in the region, commemorate the inauguration of Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr. N’wamitwa II, a trailblazing woman and leader among the Vatsonga people. The celebration, first held on 29 August 2008, not only honors the installation of Hosi N’wamitwa II but also stands as a symbol of gender equality and non-discrimination, advancing constitutional values in the country. However, the event took a startling turn when Mashatile, Chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, fell ill during his address.
**Heat Likely Cause of Collapse**
In an interview with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba speculated that the intense heat in the area could have played a role in Mashatile’s condition. She indicated that dehydration might have been a contributing factor, though the Deputy President was reported to be in stable condition.
“The Deputy President is in good spirits and is receiving care from his medical team. I am satisfied with his progress because we have checked his vitals,” stated Ramathuba, who reassured the public that there was no immediate cause for concern. She added that the medical team had closely monitored Mashatile’s condition, ruling out any severe or ongoing health issues.
“The heat in this area is extreme, and that could have resulted in him becoming dehydrated. There is no reason for South Africans to panic because Mashatile is fine and responding well to treatment,” she explained. She also urged attendees and the general public to take precautions in the hot weather, advising people to stay hydrated. “We are losing a lot of water in our bodies due to the heat. Drinking enough water is essential to prevent dehydration.”
**No Underlying Health Concerns**
Ramathuba was quick to assure the public that no other medical conditions contributed to the Deputy President’s collapse. She emphasized that Mashatile had been promptly attended to by medical personnel who were stationed on-site, ensuring he received the care he needed.
“There are no other health concerns that South Africans should worry about regarding Mashatile’s condition. He was immediately moved to an area where medics could check on him, and they have confirmed that he is recovering well,” Ramathuba continued.
Despite the incident, the N’wamitwa Day Celebrations proceeded, with the community continuing to honor the legacy of Hosi Dr. N’wamitwa II. As a pioneer woman leader in her community, Hosi N’wamitwa II’s installation marked a historic moment for the Vatsonga people and the advancement of women’s roles in traditional leadership.
As Mashatile recovers, his team and medical staff remain optimistic about his health, reassuring the public that there is no need for alarm. The Deputy President’s office has yet to release an official statement, but updates are expected as his condition continues to improve.
In light of this incident, South Africans are reminded of the importance of staying safe during the country’s hotter months, especially when attending outdoor events or exerting themselves in high temperatures.