The community of Diepkloof in Soweto gathered to say their final goodbyes to five-year-old Siyabonga Mnisi.
The little boy lost his life last week after allegedly eating contaminated snacks from a local spaza shop.
Police said Mnisi and three other children fell ill shortly afterwards, showing symptoms of food poisoning including vomiting, nausea, and difficulty breathing. The little boy died at a nearby hospital.
A relative read a heartbreaking letter written by the boy’s mother.
“With you gone, I’m sorry to say I feel God has failed me for the second time. I don’t know why, my boy, but rest, my child – be an angel.”
Siyabonga’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, adding to the growing list of children whose lives have been cut short by a spate of food-borne illnesses.
He was laid to rest at the Diepkloof Cemetery.
