22 May 2016

Makgabaneng fans will miss the voice of Olorato ‘Smash’ Ramolefhe who was popularly known as ‘Rraagwe Tysen’ (the father to Tysen) on the popular drama cast. 

According to the family spokesperson senior superintendent Wamorena Ramolefhe, the actor passed on May 8 after collapsing at church in the middle of a testimony. He said the deceased was rushed to Bokamoso Private Hospital where he was confirmed dead upon arrival.

He said besides acting, the deceased was a successful businessman who owned four bars, The Tower near Cumberland Hotel and three others, a butchery at Moselewapula complex and a farm in Lobatse. 

He added that the late Smash was also the chairperson of Lobatse Town Council Trade and Licencing committee.

According to the obituary, Olorato Smash Ramolefhe went for training at Malawi Railway Training Centre in Limbe from 1984-1985 and was employed as a Shunt Engineer Man at Botswana Railways in 1986. 

He worked his way through the ranks until he was promoted to Senior Engine Man in 1995. He retired from Botswana Railways in 2002 to venture into business.

He was fascinated by arts and culture from a tender age. As a young boy, he has played a role in  the birth of Jesus Christ  story as a shepherd. His passion grew when he joined drama club at secondary school and eventually landing a role in the radio aired Makgabaneng as Rraagwe Tysen. 

Born in June 27 1962, Ramolefhe is survived by his wife, four children and one grandchild, his elder brothers and sisters. He was an active member of the UCCSA church and grew up in a christian family. He was laid to rest at his farm at Sunnyside Farms in Lobatse on May 14. 

In an interview with BOPA, Mareledi TV Drama Producer Matlhogonolo Motshegwa said the passing of Ramolefhe was a great loss to the group as he was one of the best actors. 

She said their journey together could have been longer and gone further as he was very passionate and eager to learn and improve his acting skills.

She said Ramolefhe joined the Mareledi drama team in 2014. He was a humbled man who interacted well with other actors and actresses. ENDS