It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sandile Senzangakhona Dingaan, a dedicated social worker, a formidable sportsman, and a courageous servant of the people.

Sandile was the second-born son of the late Manezi and Phofoolo Dingaan. His journey began in Zastron, where he attended Zastron Public Primary School. He later moved to Herschel to attend Mehlomakhulu Secondary School, before completing his senior secondary education at Jabavu Secondary School in Alice.

A lifelong scholar, Sandile pursued his passion for social welfare at the University of Fort Hare, where he earned both his BA and BA Honours in Social Work.

Sandile dedicated his career to the Department of Social Development and later the Department of Correctional Services. His work took him across the country, beginning in Odendaalsrus before returning to Alice, and later serving in Seymour and at Tower Hospital in Fort Beaufort.

His commitment to rehabilitation and justice continued at Goedemoed Prison in the Free State and Worcester Prison in the Western Cape. He concluded his distinguished career at the KwaZulu-Natal Regional Office in Pietermaritzburg, where he eventually retired.

A man of action, Sandile's influence extended far beyond his office. In 1981, his prowess on the soccer field saw him represent the Ciskei national squad. His leadership in sports led him to serve in the National Sports Council in the years leading up to 1994.

During the height of the struggle, Sandile was a pillar of the underground operations for the United Democratic Front (UDF). Operating through the Alice Cultural Club — which later became the South African Youth Congress (SAYCO, Asijiki 1985) — he fought tirelessly for a democratic South Africa. He further contributed to his profession as a leader within the South African Black Social Workers Association (SABSWA).

Sandile is survived by his loving wife, siblings, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his spirit of resilience and compassion.