By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Thamsanqa Jabulani “Mjay” Zama, who made Eyadini, the coolest hangout spot in Durban was laid to rest at The Station Urban Venue in Durban.
Mjay, only 50 years old, passed away on Saturday, 12 August, due to a stroke.
The business owner, who was known in social circles as “Jigga Money”, was honoured through a memorial service at Umlazi W Oasis Church on Thursday afternoon.
His funeral was attended by family, friends and provincial government dignitaries led by the KZN premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Economic Development MEC Siboniso Duma and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa.
In paying her tribute to Mjay, Dube-Ncube said he was truly inspirational as a businessperson that grew up in uMlazi.
“He was an inspiration to many. He prioritised the needs of the community. He campaigned tirelessly for the eradication of crime. We worked with him on Gender-Based Violence and supporting orphanages. His bikers team were also involved,” said Dube-Ncube.
She added that the family should be comforted at this difficult time.
Mjay’s children took to the podium to reflect and share their fondest memories with their Dad, a friend and leader. “He was multi-faceted and multidimensional in what he did,” the family was quoted.
In their closing heartfelt sentiments, Mjay’s children promised to keep their Dad’s legacy alive.
Zama was a visionary entrepreneur who built a prime entertainment hub that helped put Umlazi on the global map. He has been described as a joyous person who was full of love.
In his condolence message, KwaZulu-Natal economic development, tourism, and environmental affairs MEC Siboniso Duma gave credit to the businessman for boosting Umlazi’s tourism and providing employment opportunities to the youth.
Zama was a self-made businessman who started his career in law enforcement as a policeman.
He later moved into the tow truck business before he bought a property in 2009 which had been used as an auto repair scrapyard.
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Video Courtesy of IceboLethu.