How could this happen and why? These are questions Fikiswa Ncaza is grappling with following the death of her son.
Her son, Kamvalethu Ncaza, (18), a Grade 12 learner at Vredenburg High, suddenly and unexpectedly died on Monday 29 July on his way to school.
Hearing one’s child has died is not the sort of news a parent is really prepared for, especially when that child has a promising future ahead.
This was just a typical morning for the Ncaza household, and Kamva was perfectly fine, doing what he did at breakfast time.
“I left for work early Monday morning, as I usually do, and Kamva was still at home eating his porridge and playing with his phone while watching soccer on television. He made is way to school and realised the taxi was taking too long so he took a lift with someone going in the direction of Saldanha. He asked the driver to drop him off at the traffic lights.”
Ncaza said when the driver stopped at the traffic lights he expected Kamva to jump out, but there was silence. “The guy asked him to get out, but when he did not respond he checked on him only to find him slumped with his head on the door. That is when the driver realised something was wrong and rushed Kamva to the hospital.”
She said doctors tried to resuscitate him, but it was too late. Ncaza is still trying to process it all, knowing her son was an active sportsman and couldn’t be healthier.
For one thing, he had big dreams for his future and was a passionate soccer player; it was a sport he breathed.
In 2022 he was selected by the BT Football Recruitment Agency to take part in soccer trials in Spain (“Help teen reach Spain”, Weslander, 8 September 2022). This was a big opportunity and a tremendous experience for Kamva.
“When we got the news we were thrilled as he was the first to go overseas. I knew my child was going to go far in life. His big dream was to play for an international soccer club and being one of the soccer analysts.”
His register teacher at school, Monré van Hooi, said Kamva was truly special.
“He had an incredible ability to change the atmosphere around him lighting up any room he entered,” he said. “A natural leader, Kamva was admired by both his peers and teachers.
“Passionate about soccer, he dreamt of achieving great things in the sport. As captain of the soccer team, Kamva always prioritised others, often caring more for his friends than himself. His selflessness and quiet strength made him a pillar of support, always ready to pick others up when they fall. The learners of 12E3, like all of us, are heartbroken. Kamva will be dearly missed.”
Ncaza said she will miss her son, his smile and the love he had for her and the family. The pain I have it is so unbearable, but I thank God for his life. Rest well my child.” An inquest docket was opened at Vredenburg Police station.
