Help bring Mandla's body home

At just 27 years old, Mandla James Mpala died in a tragic accident in Hainan, China. Mandla had been on vacation with friends when they stopped for a dive in one of China's many waterfalls. Sadly he drowned after hurting his leg. When paramedics arrived, it was too late. We are appealing to the public to help repatriate his body from China to Zimbabwe so the family can give him a dignified send-off and find closure. The family had not seen Mandla for about two years due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions and impact. He was planning to travel home later in the year. Mandla lived life to the fullest, enjoyed travel and wanted nothing more than to be a light to those around him. He could never resist the opportunity to have a laugh with friends and loved ones, given half the chance.

 

A note from Mandla's mother, Rita.

 

Writing this is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Words cannot describe the sorrow and loss I am feeling, but I will try.

 

Mandla was my second and last baby. Mama's sweet boy. Even as a baby, he had a calm temperament and as he grew into a little boy, he always took things in his stride. He was cheerful, loving, giving and full of life. When I learned of his dreams of going to China to explore opportunities, not just for him but also for our entire family, I was full of gratitude. For years, life had been challenging in Zimbabwe with the worsening economy and lack of jobs. Mandla didn't let the situation slow him down. He was determined to find means to make life meaningful. He left for Wuhan in China to study Finance and Economics. He was also an English teacher.

 

Due to the covid-19 pandemic, I hadn't seen him in about two years. Although separated by over 10 000km, we spoke every evening without fail. Every night, I find myself checking my phone, hoping he would call or text. I knew everything about him, and he knew everything about me. Our relationship was one that any parent or son could hope for. He was my best friend. Now my best friend has been tragically taken away from this world. His dreams are left unfulfilled, and he lies in a mortuary in a foreign land without the people he loves around him. No mother should ever bury her son. I have asked many questions that no one can answer. Is it true? Why him? Why so soon? Why us? What now? No one can answer all these, but I hope and pray that I will find closure and accept this one day.

 

Please help us bring my son home. I just want to see him one last time, touch him and kiss him goodbye. I know his death changes my life forever. I cannot express how much I miss him. Thank you in advance for helping us bring him home. May where you have taken multiply, and may God and the universe bring you your heart's desires. Thank you

 

 

 

 

The funds raised will be used to:

1. Repatriate his body from China to Zimbabwe

2. Cater for the funeral service needs including the coffin

We are hoping to conduct the burial service within this month, February 2022, so any quick donations will be appreciated. 

#BringMandlaHome