HAMMANSKRAAL – Deep sorrow has engulfed the Mathibestad village community following the release of the identities of two people who lost their lives after being struck by lightning during a cultural event. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, 3 January 2026, during the Mphebatho Troop Festival, a celebration meant to unite the community through culture, music, and tradition.
The deceased have been identified as **Kenosi Mashishi** and **Koketso Shikwambane**. Both victims were among a large crowd gathered at a local sports ground when a sudden and powerful lightning strike hit the area. They later succumbed to their injuries, leaving their families, friends, and the wider community devastated.
According to witnesses, the festival was well attended, with hundreds of people enjoying performances and festivities when the weather unexpectedly changed. Dark clouds reportedly gathered overhead before the lightning struck without warning. Panic ensued as people ran for safety, trying to assist those who had collapsed or were injured in the chaos that followed.
Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene. Paramedics worked tirelessly to treat the injured and transport those in serious condition to nearby hospitals. While many sustained minor injuries, the scale of the incident was overwhelming. Approximately **150 people were injured**, with **13 reported to be in critical condition**, fighting for their lives in hospital.
Community members described the scene as heartbreaking. What began as a joyful cultural celebration turned into a moment of fear, confusion, and grief. Some attendees said they had never witnessed such a tragedy at a community event before, while others expressed anger and sadness that lives were lost so suddenly.
Local leaders and residents have since extended heartfelt condolences to the families of Mashishi and Shikwambane. Messages of sympathy have poured in on social media, with many calling for unity, prayer, and support for those affected. “This is a painful loss for our village,” one community elder said. “We came together to celebrate our culture, but we leave mourning our loved ones.”
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution during outdoor events, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. While lightning strikes are natural and often unavoidable, safety measures and early warnings may help reduce risks during large gatherings.
As the community mourns, plans are reportedly underway to hold memorial services in honour of the deceased. Families of the injured continue to wait anxiously for updates on their loved ones’ conditions, hoping for recovery amid the tragedy.
This devastating incident serves as a reminder of how fragile life can be. The Mathibestad community remains united in grief, offering prayers and support to all those affected. **May Kenosi Mashishi and Koketso Shikwambane rest in eternal peace.**
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