The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) mourns the untimely death of a young trailblazer, Sbu Duma who was brutally stabbed to death on Tuesday in Howick, KwaZulu Natal. At 25 years Duma, a vibrant young man, was shaping the landscape of South Africa’s polo sport scene and contributing to the transformation of our sports industry.

Duma’s passing has robbed the country of a young talent that was shining so brightly it received recognition as a protégé from the Wilhelm and Karl Maybach Foundation, an international foundation which identifies young individuals who have great potential in their field and offers them mentorship, a tailored curriculum and resources to develop their professional skills set and leadership potential. According to the Polo Association of South Africa he was the first development player to compete at an international level.

At the time of his death, the NYDA was in negotiations with Duma’s management to have him as one its brand ambassador to motivate youth in his community and across the country. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues in the polo sport. We urge his management team and the Polo Association of South Africa to continue placing more young people under their wings so we can have more polo players of Duma’s calibre. We call on our communities to refrain from crime and report all who commit acts of crime to the South African Police Services, Crimeline and other available avenues. South Africa needs to fight back against criminals.

Duma will be remembered for immense talent and drive. May Sbu Duma’s soul rest in peace.