snl24.com/kickoff would like to express its deepest condolences to the Thuswa family as the team pays tribute to Thulani, who passed on earlier this week.
Thuswa always served this publication with great dignity and often went beyond the call of duty to assist wherever possible, and in doing so made our jobs as simple as he could.
Until recently before his untimely passing, he continued to provide media opportunities for this website, even during the difficulties of Covid-19.
His legacy is reflected in the sentiments of the staff members who had the joy of working with him, and who today mourn his passing as he was officially laid to rest.
Lovemore Moyo
"In an era where access to interviews has become so barricaded that at times a series of emails have to be sent just to get one comment, Thuts didn't need all of that. A single phone call or Whatsapp message was enough. Alternatively he would say 'woza mfo' and once you are at Chloorkop he would make sure whatever you wanted happens. Such was the comfort and easiness with which he went about his duties it didn't matter who your request was for. He even made an effort to arrange interpreters for the Spanish and French gang when they arrived at Sundowns. I suppose the reggae music you learnt to listen to because of Peter Ndlovu's influence will still be played in heaven. This hurts. Rest easy ntanga."
Ernest Fakude
"We had misunderstandings on a few occasions but one thing I will always respect about Thulani – he was a man of no grudges. Always carried his duties with a smile and this is evident with the photos that have been circulating on social media since his passing away. He will be missed by everyone in the media. Rest In Peace, Mr Thuswa."
Chad Kelly-Klate
"The term 'brother' might be considered a cliche, but Thulani Thuswa embodied the term with every individual he encountered, whether you were a close friend, colleague or merely an acquaintance. He showed true, equal love, care and respect for all and, even when there was a dispute, which can so easily and often occur in our industry, he would move to resolve this and forgive and forget like nothing ever happened. I will forever remember the warm smile and embrace he gave whenever we encountered one another – many times because he shared a personal invite with me. I will cherish the good memories and wise words we used to share, brother. Rest in eternal peace."