COUSA president Salongo Kibombo. File Photo
Johannesburg – A Thanksgiving celebration intended to foster group spirit ended into disarray and anger this past month at Kibombo’s event, despite significant financial contributions from Ugandan COUSA members. What was anticipated to be a joyous occasion was instead marred by widespread hunger, a severe lack of food, and even physical arguments.
COUSA members, some contributing as little as R100, pooled their resources to fund the event of the already wealthy man. However, the substantial amount collected seemingly vanished without a trace when it came to providing basic refreshments. Guests who arrived early were reportedly denied even a bottle of drinking water, with the available supply being sold despite the collective contributions. In a shocking turn, some attendees were even directed to use toilet facilities for drinking water.
The food situation was particularly dire, leading to chaotic scenes during meal times. Eyewitnesses reported fights breaking out as people vied for the limited provisions.
The scarcity was so pronounced that even VIP guests, who presumably expected a certain level of service, were seen departing before food was even served.
Adding to the disorganization, the ceremony lacked a proper Master of Ceremony. The microphone was reportedly handed off to an unsuspecting visitor who appeared to have no knowledge of the day’s program, further highlighting the chaotic planning. Furthermore, even capturing memories came with an additional cost, as the event ’s photographer was reportedly charging R30 to anyone wishing to have their picture taken.
In a disturbing incident, the chaos extended to the VIP section itself, where a physical altercation erupted. It was later discovered that a Samsung phone had been stolen during the fracas and was never recovered.
Throughout the unfolding disaster, Kibombo, the host of the event, was conspicuously observed on his phone, seemingly preoccupied with taking pictures and videos, rather than addressing the growing discontent and logistical nightmare. The community is now left wondering where their generous contributions went and how such an anticipated event could have gone so spectacularly wrong.
About Salongo Kibombo
The individual at the center of this controversy is none other than Salongo Moses Kibombo, a prominent and wealthy figure long established in Pretoria. Kibombo’s wealth reportedly stems from his extensive dealings in new and used auto spare parts in Pretoria West, in addition to his business of repairing and reselling damaged cars within the community. He is a recognizable name in local politics, having previously served as interime Chairman of Pretoria and now holding the esteemed position of President of COUSA.
However, Kibombo’s past is not without its shadows; he is also infamously remembered for an alleged attempt to hire gunmen for the assassination of Ali Mawale, a plot that failed when incriminating audio exchanges were leaked into various WhatsApp groups. His long-standing presence and controversial history in the community only deepen the questions surrounding the disastrous Thanksgiving ceremony.
