RIP: Affies Grade 12 learner dies one day after 18th birthday

A grade 12 learner named Kéan Botha has tragically lost his battle with cancer just one day after his 18th birthday.

AFFIES MOURNS KEAN BOTHA

Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, known as Affies, announced the death of their grade 12 learner Kéan Botha , who died just one day after his 18th birthday. Botha passed away after losing his battle with cancer on Sunday. He was a hocked player and named the most promising player in 2025.

“It is with grief that we learned that Kéan Botha (grade 12) lost his battle against cancer last Sunday, a day after his 18th birthday. Kéan was a avid hockey player. He was named the most promising player in 2025 and played for the school’s first team,” read the statement.

“We pray for the Lord’s comfort of the Botha family in this extremely difficult time. Affies expresses his deepest sympathy to Kéan’s family and his friends,” read the statement.

In September, Grade 9 day scholar Nico Caine passed away. Nico was a Grade 9 day scholar at Paul Roos Gymnasium, one of Stellenbosch – and South Africa’s – best-known schools.

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR THE LEARNER

“Our deepest condolences to Affies and the Botha family following the passing of Kéan Botha. A talented hockey player and proud Affie, Kéan’s life and sporting spirit will be remembered with great respect. May the Lord surround his family, friends and the entire Affies community with comfort and strength during this difficult time. From the Maritzburg College family, our thoughts and prayers are with you 🔴⚫⚪,” wrote @maritzburg_college.

“This is absolutely heartbreaking to read, may his family be comforted in this difficult time 😢🕊️,” wrote @mrs_gale_.

“Someone who always put others above himself even though he went through a bad time. Someone of true character and a real man to look up to even if he was only 18 years old. ❤️💛💚,” wrote @gustav_b10.

“Rest in eternal peace Kéan. May your family and friends be comforted by warm memories of a beautiful life! ❤️,” wrote @erniefaller.