As Community Mourns Seven-Year-Old Lolitha Kowa
CCN Reporter –
Khayelitsha:- Emotions ran high outside the Khayelitsha Magistrate’s Court this morning, as Odwa Jack and Nokuthula Matyesini made their second appearance.
They are accused of the rape and murder of seven-year-old Lolitha Kowa.
The young girl from Kuyasa went missing on 22 July. Her lifeless body was discovered the next day, barely 1.5 kilometres from her home. Police quickly arrested the couple, who now face charges of rape, murder, and defeating the ends of justice.
According to chilling details revealed in court last week, a sock was forced into Lolitha’s throat, and her fingernails bore signs of a violent struggle. DNA samples were collected from beneath her nails as part of the investigation.
Funeral Set for This Weekend
Lolitha’s devastated family is preparing to lay her to rest this weekend in the Eastern Cape, with the assistance of the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta). On Thursday, Codeta donated R15,000 towards the funeral and provided transportation for the family.
Jack, who was employed as a Codeta driver at the time of the crime, has brought shame to the organisation, said Codeta chairperson Nceba Enge.
“We are heartbroken. We do not support or defend what he did. We will stand with the family and community in court, and we support the call for no bail,” said Enge, who also confirmed that Jack previously served five years for vehicle theft.
“We Are Trying to Heal”
Ntombifuthi Kowa, Lolitha’s aunt, thanked Codeta and other groups who’ve come forward in support.
“The association really helped us, and we’re grateful. But we are still broken by what happened. The pain is deep, and we are trying to heal.”
Earlier this week, a memorial service was held at Ludwe Ngamlana Primary School, where Lolitha had been a bright and happy Grade 1 learner. Teachers, classmates, and neighbours came together to honour her life and demand justice.
As court proceedings continue, the community has vowed to return in numbers until justice is served.
