Legendary SABC broadcaster Cebo Clement Manyaapelo has been laid to rest.
Hundreds of people converged in Manyaapelo’s hometown of Mahikeng, at the North West University, to pay their last respects.
He died after a long illness. His career in broadcasting spanned over 34 years.
Manyaapelo was known for his in-depth knowledge of sports and soccer commentary for both radio and television.
Manyaapelo was also known as an anchor of a popular morning show, on Motsweding FM, Bosele.
Affectionately known as CC or Ceb-man, he had passion for football matters.
Various government officials attended his funeral such as Premier of the North West Supra Mahumapelo, Mayor of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality Justice Makolomakwa and SABC Spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago.
Dignitaries from the Premier Soccer League, broadcasters and former soccer players were also present.
A family representative, Simon Makgamathe says Cebo was exemplary to the family at large despite the challenges he grew up under.
“How I wish most of our children of this current generation could take Cebo as an example of what focus, determination can deliver and improve your life.”
SABC Spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says the public broadcaster has lost the most talented sports commentator.
“We still feel very saddened by the fact that we are laying him to rest, but the fact that he has played this role that he has played for us will always remind us of the good work that he has done. And we are hopeful that the people he has been working with and the people that have been enjoying listening to (him) will continue where he left (off).”
Some of his friends and colleagues described Cebo as a person who loved his work.
“He always would say his life is a party and he would look forward to big games and say ‘let’s do this’. And the preparation, the love for the work … it is one thing that he has taught most of us.”
His colleague Oshebeng Koonyaditse says despite the love that Cebo had for football, he will remember him about other responsibilities.
It will go down as one of the saddest days in the country’s football fraternity, as the final whistle is blown on the life of Cebo ‘CC’ Manyaapelo.
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