OBITUARY: PROF. G H KAMWENDO EMINENT ACADEMIC AND SOCIOLINGUIST

The University Community is reeling with shock since the devastating news of Prof’s untimely demise broke. Professor Kamwendo passed under tragic circumstances on Tuesday evening in Empangeni over an unknown motive.

Life teaches us all that each day must be lived wholly and to the fullest, as we do not know for whom the bell tolls.  Only God can unravel the mystery of life. The tragic loss of the good, the old, and the brave has haunted mankind for a long time and again in this moment, with Prof Kamwendo’s passing we are saddened. The University has arranged counselling services for all the affected staff members, students and there is ongoing contact with his bereaved family

Prof Kamwendo was a full Professor in Sociolinguistic and Education. He was an avid researcher and a seasoned leader. He joined the University of Zululand in 2016 as the Dean in the Faculty of Arts. He modelled UNIZULU values which are Innovation, Teamwork, Efficiency, Accountability and Mutual Trust by being a diligent and loyal academic. He made a significant impact as a contributor in repositioning the Faculty of Arts research agenda and staff members graduating with Masters and PhD’s. Prof Kamwendo publication record comprises of books, 20 book chapters, 3 guest edited special issues of accredited journals, 38 peer reviewed journals and 8 papers in conference proceedings.

The University of Zululand mourns a conscientious and a dedicated intellectual who used the talents to empower and shape the academia in persuasive ways beyond imagination. He was passionate about languages and often commented of the importance of one’s medium of expression. He said a person might have brilliant ideas, but if they are not able to advance those ideas through the language they best understand, then there’s lack of freedom of expression.

Prof Kamwendo’s talents were recognised globally as an energetic scholar and researcher therefore condolences are conveyed to his native country of Malawi, colleagues, students, friends, associations and most importantly his affected family. The University of Zululand wishes you strength and love outpouring during this period.

“He said,” Naked I came from my mother’s womb and naked shall I return there; the Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Job 1:21

Issued by: Professor X. Mtose – University Vice Chancellor & Rector