MEC SIMELANE PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE DR ZANELE MPHO BIKITSHA
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane has paid tribute to the late Dr Zanele Mpho Bikitsha, remembering her as a dedicated medical doctor, compassionate leader and champion of rural healthcare. Dr Bikitsha, who served as CEO of Mfundo Arnold Lushaba Community Health Centre and Chairperson of SAMA, died in a tragic motor vehicle accident at the age of 40. She will be laid to rest in Gauteng this weekend.
By NWN Editor · 2026/08/07 · 3 min read
MEC SIMELANE PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE DR ZANELE MPHO BIKITSHA
KWAZULU-NATAL — KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane has paid tribute to the late Dr Zanele Mpho Bikitsha, describing her as a dedicated medical professional, compassionate leader and committed servant of rural communities.
Dr Bikitsha, who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Mfundo Arnold Lushaba Community Health Centre, formerly known as Turton Community Health Centre in Mthwalume, died in a motor vehicle accident on Sunday, 2 August 2026, while travelling home. She was 40 years old.
Addressing mourners at her memorial service, MEC Simelane described Dr Bikitsha as a leader who made people feel valued and heard.
“We gather today with heavy hearts, but also with immense gratitude, to honour and celebrate a life lived with extraordinary purpose. Dr Zanele Mpho Bikitsha was many things to many people: a daughter, a sister, a colleague, a mentor, a doctor, a leader and a friend.”
MEC Simelane also reflected on Dr Bikitsha’s decision to dedicate herself to serving communities in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
“She chose to remain here, serving the people of eMzumbe and surrounding communities, because she believed this was where she was needed most.”
A LIFE DEDICATED TO MEDICINE
Dr Bikitsha qualified as a medical doctor from the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine in 2010 and subsequently dedicated her career to public healthcare.
She served in various clinical and management positions before being appointed CEO of Mfundo Arnold Lushaba Community Health Centre. She also served as Chairperson of the South African Medical Association (SAMA).
Throughout her career, she was recognised for her clinical expertise, leadership, mentorship and commitment to improving access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural communities.
Her passing during Women’s Month has also been described as particularly poignant given her commitment to women’s health, empowerment and equitable access to healthcare.
REMEMBERED FOR HER COMPASSION
Colleagues and community members remembered Dr Bikitsha as a humble and compassionate professional whose warmth and leadership touched many lives.
MEC Simelane highlighted her personal qualities, including her ability to put people at ease during difficult circumstances.
“We will remember Mpho's radiant smile, which had the remarkable ability to put people at ease, even during the most difficult conversations. Behind that elegance was a woman of extraordinary kindness, generosity and compassion, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of healthcare professionals.”
BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS
Dr Bikitsha is expected to be laid to rest in Gauteng this weekend. Her family, colleagues, healthcare professionals, traditional and community leaders, as well as members of the public, have gathered to honour her life and legacy.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has extended its condolences to the Bikitsha family, friends, colleagues and the communities she served.
NWN Media extends its deepest condolences to the Bikitsha family and all those affected by her passing.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
NWN MEDIA | Digital Voice of KZN
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