By Karabo Ntanzi
There was a somber mood as young boys and girls clad in scout’s uniform paraded in Mathanzima street in Galeshewe to bid farewell to one of their own, Kagisho Elijah Mosegeleng, who had died while taking a nap at his parent’s home last month.
The young Mosegeleng was a grade six learner at Progress Primary school and a member of the scout movement at Isago Primary school. He has been part of the Impala troop since 2021.
Speakers at the funeral described the 13-year-old Kagisho as like any child of his age group, mischievous, obedient and naughty but with artistic and potential leadership qualities.
His neighbour Mma April proudly claimed the deceased as her son. “Kagisho was my child. I used to send him anywhere. He was very energetic. He even helped me to clean my yard. He would use recycled material and crates to build a car for his friends and they would play at being motorists. After that, the friends would leave a mess behind, poor Kagisho would clean-up without complaint. We have a good relationship with the neighbours”, lamented Mma April.
She further told the mourners that she immediately rushed to the Mosegeleng house when she heard screams. There she found Kagisho lying unresponsive on the bed.
Mimie Bahule, the District Commissioner and Pack Scouter for Impala, said: “Like a typical older brother Kagisho was protective over his younger sister, who is also a scout. They were in different classes – she was a cub. He usually accompanied her to her scout class and patiently waited until the class is dismissed. Kagisho would issue instructions to the cubs if I were not in”. The commissioner remarked that Kagisho had expressed an interest in leading his troop one day on numerous occasions.
The Regional Commissioner Nolen van der Merwe said the movement was saddened to lose such a young life. “With his jokes, he became a pillar of laughter to his peers. He acquired his badges quickly”.
Van der Merwe led the Scout Promise and reminded the members to follow in the footsteps of their founder – Baden Powel – “Always be prepared.”
The deceased Kagisho’s class teacher Mr Lutherwyk reminded mourners that each one of us has a purpose and it is the individual’s responsibility to fulfill the purpose irrespective of how long or short life is.
The family spokesperson, Thapelo “Prof” Sekonyane commended the scout movement for molding and mentoring young lives. “Our society is in moral decay; we need incorruptible people.” He encouraged community members to live in harmony, especially during bereavement.
There was a touching and somber moment at the graveside when the grieving parents were presented with their child’s uniform, neatly displayed in picture frame, decorated with all his badges. The troop sounded the “Last call” as Kagisho’s coffin was lowered into his grave. The trumpet sounded and all troopies saluted. The troopers released blue and white balloons.
Kagisho is survived by his parents and two sisters.
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