By Matabeleland North Correspondent TSHOLOTSHO: The heir apparent to Chief Mahlathini chieftaincy in Tsholotsho, Jabulani Jiyane has succumbed to Covid-19. Jiyane, whose age could not be ascertained, was acting chief following the death of his father in 2018. Chief Mahlathini’s area borders with Chief Gampu on the southern side and Chief Deli of Nyamandlovu, in the neighbouring Umguza district on the north-eastern side. Acting Tsholotsho district development coordinator Aaron Gono confirmed Jiyane’s death in a short statement. “On a very sad note, may I confirm the death of Mr Jabulani Jiyane (apparent heir to the Mahlathini Chieftainship). He passed away on 23 July 2021 in the early hours, at Tsholotsho Hospital. He was diabetic and at the time of his death, he was battling with Covid-19,” said Gono.