It is not often that a community gathers in such great numbers to bid farewell to one of its most celebrated sons. On Saturday, the people of Temba and beyond came together in their multitudes to honour the life and legacy of the late entrepreneur and community builder, Umhlongonywa Piet (UP) Raphekwane, who was laid to rest at the Pyramid Cemetery, north of the City of Tshwane in Gauteng Province.
Born on 25 June 1953 in Speekerus to his late parents Johannes and Lenah Raphekwane, Piet was part of a large family of ten children. As one of the three eldest, he embraced the responsibilities of leadership from an early age. The values of hard work, integrity, responsibility, and accountability, instilled by his parents, became the cornerstones of his life and guided him in all his endeavours.
He began his schooling at Kudube Primary (est. 1947) under the stewardship of the late Headmaster Clifford Malatji “Bango” Thobejane (1927–2007). He successfully completed his secondary education at Hans Kekana High School in Majaneng village. With a keen interest in finance and business from his secondary curriculum, he pursued tertiary studies in Financial Accountancy at Ithuteng Commercial College in Mooka village.
Piet Raphekwane’s professional journey began at the Bophuthatswana National Development Corporation (BNDC), a government agency established to drive economic and industrial development in the homeland. During his tenure as BNDC Regional Manager for Odi in Mabopane, he gained invaluable experience in enterprise incubation and community economic development. This work later earned him national recognition, culminating in his appointment as the first Chairperson of the North West Tender Board following the dawn of democracy in 1994.
Equipped with vision and entrepreneurial acumen, Piet ventured into business and established several enterprises that left a lasting mark on the local economy. These included Rampi Engen Fuel Station, Nicks Supermarket in Temba, and the Klipgat Shopping Centre. Later, he expanded into the construction industry through a sand and quarry operation, coupled with a plant hire business offering heavy earthmoving equipment. These ventures not only demonstrated his business savvy but also created jobs and opportunities for many within the community.
Beyond business, Piet was a passionate sportsman and an avid supporter of football. Recognizing the power of sport to transform lives, he founded the Temba Wolves Football Club (for which he was the head coach), which competed in the Bophuthatswana Soccer League (Bopsol). The league featured twelve regional clubs, including the Mmabatho Kicks, famed for discovering soccer legends such as Lucas Radebe, the former captain of Bafana Bafana.
His love for youth development inspired him to establish a soccer academy in partnership with Ratshepo High School, where he worked closely with Deputy Headmaster Maswanganye – who later became his close life-long friend and confidante. Through their enduring friendship and common passion for football, the academy became a vital platform for nurturing young talent while instilling discipline, teamwork, and hope for a brighter future.
Piet Raphekwane’s contributions extended far beyond the business and sporting arenas. He was deeply committed to education and community upliftment. Through bursaries and scholarships, he opened doors for countless young people to pursue higher education. He mentored aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them with patience and wisdom, and provided counsel to young activists who were navigating the complexities of life under the oppressive homeland system.
These acts of generosity and service elevated his stature and won him immense respect among both the youth and the broader community. He lived not for himself alone, but for the progress and empowerment of his people.
Today, as the community lay him to rest, we remember Piet Raphekwane not only as a beloved brother, father, grandfather and family man, but as a selfless social entrepreneur, mentor, and community builder. His life was a testimony to resilience, vision, and service. His legacy is etched in the lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the hope he inspired in generations to come.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his example continue to guide us as we strive for stronger communities and a brighter future.