News
Ronald Lamola Leads Tributes as South Africa Mourns Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa
A Nation in Mourning
South Africa is in collective mourning after the death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, a respected statesman, former Cabinet Minister, and diplomat who dedicated decades of his life to public service.
At a memorial service held in Pretoria on Friday, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola spoke with emotion, describing Mthethwa’s passing as a “monumental loss” to both the nation and the diplomatic community.
“More than a week ago, our nation received the harrowing news of Ambassador Mthethwa’s passing,” Lamola told mourners. “Those who loved him and shared moments of his life as a son, husband, father, friend, comrade, and diplomat were confronted with unimaginable grief and a deep sense of loss.”
A Final Journey Home
Earlier that morning, Mthethwa’s remains arrived at OR Tambo International Airport, marking his return from Paris, where he tragically passed away at the age of 58 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel last week. His body will be transported to KwaMbonambi in KwaZulu-Natal, where he will be laid to rest on Sunday.
His family performed a traditional ritual in Paris before the repatriation, ensuring that his spirit was brought home in line with cultural customs.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral (Category 2) to honour Mthethwa’s years of service to the country.
A Diplomat Who Strengthened South Africa’s Global Voice
At the time of his death, Mthethwa was serving as South Africa’s Ambassador to France and was also accredited to Monaco. He was appointed to the post in 2023 and quickly became instrumental in deepening relations between South Africa and France, while also contributing to broader efforts to transform global power relations in favour of emerging nations.
Minister Lamola acknowledged Mthethwa’s achievements in this role and expressed gratitude to Ambassador David Martino and the French government for their support following his passing.
“We thank the French government for their compassion and assistance from the moment of his death until his mortal remains departed,” Lamola said. “He will shortly be en route back to KwaZulu-Natal, where he will be laid to rest in his beloved rural home of KwaMbonambi.”
Honouring His Legacy
Among the mourners were ANC deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, and Malusi Gigaba, all of whom served alongside Mthethwa in Cabinet.
Lamola also paid tribute to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) staff based in Paris for handling the complex repatriation process with dedication and professionalism. He praised Deputy Director-General Maud Dlomo, who led the coordination from Brussels, and DDG Zane Dangor for his guidance during the crisis.
“This has been a very difficult period for the staff at our mission in Paris and within the department, but they have been holding the fort and will continue to do so,” Lamola added. “The struggle continues.”
A Life Remembered
Before his diplomatic appointment, Nathi Mthethwa was widely known for his tenure as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, where he championed national unity through creative expression and athletic excellence. His leadership was often described as steady, measured, and grounded in a belief that culture could heal and unite South Africa’s diverse communities.
As messages of condolence continue to pour in, the public mood has been one of deep reflection. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes, with many South Africans recalling Mthethwa’s calm demeanour, humility, and enduring loyalty to public service.
For many, his death marks the end of an era, one defined by a quiet kind of leadership built on diplomacy, cultural pride, and commitment to South Africa’s place in the world.
Also read: Illness Delays Testimony of Crime Intelligence Boss at Madlanga Commission
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: IOL
Featured Image: Polity.org
