What was meant to be an enjoyable family weekend break-away abruptly turned into a tragic event for an Observatory family.
A deadly shark attack at Central Beach, Plettenberg Bay claimed the life of Kimon Bisogno (38), Co-founder of Obs Pasta Kitchen and Ferdinando’s Pizza on Sunday 25 September.
Craig Lambinon, NSRI Spokesperson, says: “NSRI Plettenberg Bay and the police services were activated at 07:53 following reports of a shark incident at Central Beach. The sea rescue craft Eric Stratford was launched. On arrival on the scene, the body of, a believed to be, 39-year-old female from Cape Town was recovered from the water and brought to the beach.”
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and the Bitou Municipality is appealing to the public to be cautious along the Plettenberg Bay and Southern Cape coastline.
Beaches have been closed in Plettenberg Bay by Bitou Municipality following the fatal incident on Sunday.
Tributes have been pouring in since the news of Bisogno’s death broke.
“An incredible woman with a ferocious appetite for supporting those in need. Her tireless work to feed and uplift the informal residents of Observatory and Cape Town is an inspiration. The social work she achieved during her time here will always be remembered. We love you so much Kiki,” read a statement on Facebook.
A friend, Richard Bolland, says: “There was no one that embodied “Love your neighbour” more than Kimon Bisogno. Her energy, warmth and compassion is something I’ll never forget. The impact that she had on the homelessness sector changed the way people volunteer, serve and help those living on the streets and if there is anything we can do, it’s to maintain the legacy she has left.”
Carlos Mesquita, Owner of CM Homeless Consultancy, says Bisogno had a passion for helping people living on the street.
“I cannot articulate the words. I could not sleep last night. I don’t think I am able to function. She exemplified to me how God had intended us all to be but which very few of us ever truly become. She plain and simply loved. That’s what Kimon lived, did and was, LOVE- the rest just followed.”
Social Housing lobby group, Ndifuna Ukwazi released a statement expressing its condolences to the family. “Kimon ‘Kiki’ and her partner Diego began the Obs Pasta Kitchen out of their restaurant Ferdinando’s pizza, serving home-made pasta to people experiencing homelessness once a week. Through their work, Kiki and Diego contributed food, gas, and other essentials to the Rainbow House, a long-term housing programme for people who used to live on the street. Rest in Peace Kiki, thank you for the inspiring work you did. Your presence will be missed”.
Andile Namntu, Bitou Communications Manager, says the Bitou Council in May approved a research on shark barrier at central beach.
“This study will go a long way to assist in understanding the behaviour of the sharks. At this moment there seems to be more shark activities at our beaches. This is very unusual when compared with previous years.”
Namntu says the Bitou Municipality have also established a shark committee to work with experienced private sector personnel to assist with limiting such incidents
