BREAKING – Popular Table Mountain field ranger sadly passes away

Table Mountain National Park said it is mourning the tragic loss of one of its Field Rangers, Ayanda Majozi, a much loved hero who made news in May when he took part in the Cableway Charity Challenge to raise funds for vulnerable women and children in Cape Town, South Africa. Ayanda passed away yesterday, Wednesday 16 August 2023. No further details on his passing were provided.

The park’s manager, Megan Taplin, said in a statement on Thursday: “We have lost a true hero and someone who had a passion for being a field ranger. I would like to express my sincere condolences to his immediate family, friends, and colleagues. The memorial and funeral arrangements are underway.”

Earlier this year, when he launched a fundraiser for the Cableway Challenge, Megan has sung his praises, saying: “The park is proud of people like Ayanda who are extending their work to benefit a good cause linked to public events.”

South African National Parks (SANParks) said today that it is “deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of Mr. Ayanda Majozi”. SANParks said: “Mr. Majozi was a Field Ranger in the Visitor Safety Ranger (VSR) Unit. He joined SANParks on 1 July 2011 and was well respected in his field of work. He was an avid trail runner who competed every year in the Cableway Charity Challenge. His passing definitely leaves a void amongst his Table Mountain National Park colleagues and TMNP regular visitors.”

Many have already left tributes.

Phil C said: “He was a legend, always had great chats with him RIP .” Anthony V added: “I had the privilege of working close to this very humble gentleman on various occasions. He will be truly missed but not forgotten. Our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends and colleagues. May his gentle soul RIP.”

Soraya M said: “Met him on the Cableway Charity Challenge… Such a privilege… He was one of the hikers that hiked till the last to achieve his goal.”

Tanya H wrote: “Our country has lost another hero to senseless crime. I’m so sorry for your loss. It breaks my heart. Sending love and healing to all who knew and loved him. 🩵 Rest in peace beautiful soul! “

Friends of Table Mountain described him as a “brilliant TMNP Ranger and Mountain/Trail Running guide. A number of our FOTM members have spent time with him on TMNP and cannot even find the words to describe his loss. It was always a pleasure seeing his friendly face, whether it was on patrols, assisting on mountain rescues, or bumping into him running in the mountains. Our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at SANParks. Your loss, is our loss.“