South Africa is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Mohammed Mokoena, the young boy from Sasolburg whose courageous fight against a rare and debilitating medical condition touched the lives of thousands across the country. Fondly known to many online as “Young Mokoena,” he became a symbol of resilience, hope, and community solidarity as people followed his difficult journey and rallied behind him in his time of need.
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Mohammed had been living with a rare condition that caused severe enlargement of his kidneys and significantly affected the structure and function of his legs and feet. The illness placed enormous strain on his young body, limiting his mobility and causing ongoing medical complications. Despite these challenges, those who knew his story often spoke about his bright spirit, his sense of humor, and his determination to keep going even when circumstances were overwhelming.
Earlier in 2025, his situation gained national attention after community activist Desmond Ramaru, together with several social media personalities and supporters, helped launch a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign titled “Help young Mokoena get surgery.” The campaign aimed to raise funds for urgent medical procedures that Mohammed desperately needed in order to improve his quality of life and address the life-threatening complications affecting his kidneys and lower limbs.
The response from the public was and deeply moving. South Africans from all walks of life contributed what they could, shared his story online, and sent messages of encouragement. For a time, there was renewed hope. Updates from the campaign suggested that the support was making a real difference, and in November 2025, reports indicated that Mohammed had undergone surgery. Many believed this marked the beginning of a better chapter in his long and painful medical journey.
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Tragically, new information has now confirmed that Mohammed has passed away after complications related to his condition. The exact details surrounding the timing and circumstances of his death remain limited, and at the time of writing, no official statement has been released by his family or the campaign organizers regarding funeral arrangements or the final status of the fundraising effort. The news has nevertheless sent a wave of sadness across social media, where many had grown emotionally invested in his story.
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For those who followed his journey, Mohammed was more than just a patient in need of help. He was a young fighter who, even after facing immense hardship—including the earlier loss of his mother—continued to show remarkable courage. His story reminded many South Africans of the power of compassion and the difference that collective action can make, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
As tributes continue to pour in, the country pauses to remember a young life that, though far too short, left a lasting impact. Mohammed Mokoena’s battle brought strangers together, inspired generosity, and highlighted both the fragility and strength of the human spirit. Our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and everyone who stood by him throughout his journey during this incredibly difficult time.