Veteran sangoma and archbishop Gogo Mapuleng Mofokeng (92) was laid to rest in traditional sangoma style at Turfontein Village, QwaQwa in the Free State on Saturday, 28 March.
Her massive funeral drew family, community members and izangoma across the province who came to pay their respects and honour her long life dedicated to spiritual leadership and traditional healing.
The ceremony celebrated her legacy, reflecting on her contributions to both the sangoma community and the broader society.
Izangoma honoured their veteran colleague by demonstrating their traditional rites and practices to send her off and paying tribute to a life that profoundly impacted many.
Throughout her years as both a sangoma and a church leader, Gogo Mapuleng touched many lives with her spiritual guidance, wisdom, and compassion.
The ceremonial farewell reflected the deep respect and admiration her peers held for her, blending ancestral customs with heartfelt expressions of mourning and celebration of her legacy.
Sangoma Gogo Makgotso Motaung told Daily Sun that the death of Gogo Mapuleng is a great loss. She described it as deeply felt within the traditional healer's world and emphasised the significant impact Gogo Mapuleng had through her work.
"Gogo Mapuleng was a highly respected sangoma in our province. She was known by many people and had unquestionable experience in healing. She guided countless individuals, even those who were not her own in the sangoma tradition," she said.
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Another sangoma, Mkhulu Tabola Nhlapo, said they were happy that Gogo Mapuleng was buried according to sangoma traditions and she will be warmly welcomed by the ancestors.
Gogo Mapuleng's grandson, Teboho Motsei, described his grandmother as a true jack of all trades who guided and nurtured him after he lost his parents at a young age.
"I lost my parents at an early age. I came to stay with my grandmother. She taught me how to cook, how to be an independent man with dignity. Her house was open for everyone. We have lost a pillar of strength," said Teboho.
Ward councillor Samuel Hlalele said the passing of such a prominent sangoma in his village presents a serious challenge for the community. He explained that Gogo Mapuleng played a vital role in guiding and supporting many residents, and her absence will leave a significant gap in both cultural and spiritual leadership.
"Gogo Mapuleng was a prominent sangoma who embraced both traditional practices and church values. She played a vital role in our village in many ways and was a clear example of a sangoma who truly reflected our culture," he said.
