‘We have lost future doctors, nurses’ - emotional tributes to 21 Enyobeni teens
The families of the 21 young people who died at Enyobeni Tavern in East London have been reading their obituaries at a mass funeral underway at the Scenery Park sports field.
The victims, one of them being teenager like Azizipho, had packed into the tavern over a week ago to celebrate the end of exams.
"Azizipho was born on the 21st of January in 2006 in East London. Azizipho was looking forward in completing his Grade 12 and being a doctor one day," a family member said.
"Azizipho loved sports. He played soccer at school. He suddenly passed away on the 26th of June 2022. He will be deeply missed by his family."
From the accounts of survivors, those in the establishment were exposed to some sort of toxic chemical at some point during the night.
Police have yet to confirm the exact cause of the deaths.
Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Mabuyane says their families had hoped they would achieve great things.
"As a nation, we have lost future doctors, nurses, engineers, teachers and entrepreneurs and future world sports champions.
"The passing of these young people deprives our government of civil servants who would have made an effective contribution in the development of our communities."
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy later.
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