TRIBUTES have been pouring in for one of Kouga’s most influential traditional leaders, who was laid to rest last week.
Chief (Gaob) Michael Williams of the Gamtouer tribe succumbed to COVID-19 related complications on November 24. He was 81 years old.
Kouga Executive Mayor, Horatio Hendricks, said the Chief’s passing had come as a great shock.
“He was known by many as the ‘lion of Kouga’ and one would never have guessed his years. He was a strong community leader, who was passionate about the Khoisan culture and worked tirelessly to protect and promote our region’s heritage,” he said.
“He was also the provincial chairman of the Khoi Culture Heritage Development Council and the first chairman of the Kouga Khoisan Council.
“He worked closely with the municipality to help ensure that our country’s First Nation had a voice in government plans and developments. His passing has left a massive void, which will not easily be filled.”
Chief Daantjie Japhta, provincial secretary of the Khoi Culture Heritage Development Council and a former mayor of Camdeboo, also saluted Chief Williams.
“Born in Sunnyside in Kouga, he was a true son of the soil.
“He was a formidable man, who played a leading role in the church and cared deeply about people.
“He was also a farmer and entrepreneur of note in addition to the many roles he played within our province’s Khoisan structures.”
Japhta said a memorial service and !Nau ceremony had been held to honour Chief Williams at Thornhill, followed by a funeral service and a Khoi burial ritual in Port Elizabeth last week.
He leaves behind his wife, five children, 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“!Gaise !gu re Goab Michael.”
(Go well, Chief Michael)
“!Gaise lala re Goab Michael.”
(Rest in peace, Chief Michael)
“Ti Elob !Kaise a Kai.”
(Our God is great).
