Political parties, celebrities such as PJ Powers and Zelda La Grange as well as the Nelson Mandela Foundation have paid tribute to well-known billionaire Douw Steyn (72), after the announcement of his passing earlier today.

Although the cause of his death was not revealed, Steyn is said to have been battling poor health for years. Despite his illness, Steyn was well-known for his business acumen, as well as his philanthropic journey.

RIP dear friend #DouwSteyn Thank you for your friendship to me, Madiba and many others.
Full statement on my Facebook page. pic.twitter.com/i6vYgXjhDI

— Zelda la Grange ©™✌ (@ZeldalaGrangeSA) February 4, 2025

Steyn’s business career spanned over four decades, during which he founded several companies, including Auto&General Insurance, Budget, 1st for Women, Dialdirect and 1Life, among others. He also established the BGL Group in the UK and expanded his business interests to Australia.

He was married to Carolyn Steyn who is known for starting the 67 Blankets non-profit organisation, which caters for those in need to celebrate 67 Minutes for Mandela Day.

He also had a passion for philanthropy which was evident in his various charitable endeavors. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he pledged R370m to assist relief efforts, including R50m to the National Solidarity Fund and R250m to support feeding schemes in Diepsloot, Cosmo City, and beyond.

“Steyn stepped down as Executive Chairman of his global business interests in 2012. Collectively, these businesses now employ over 10 000 people, who are based in over 50 offices globally,” the statement indicates.

Steyn recently fulfilled his dream of building a city within a city when Steyn City, an 800-hectare residential and lifestyle estate in northern Johannesburg was launched.

“From inception, Steyn ensured that the impact of Steyn City would extend far beyond its gates and contribute to the economic development of the country. This commitment, which reflected Steyn’s confidence in South Africa and its future, materialised during the construction of Steyn City when, at Steyn’s request, over 28 000 jobs were created.

In the majority of these positions, residents from the neighbouring communities of Diepsloot and Cosmo City were employed. Steyn City has been acknowledged as an outstanding success – a fitting legacy for its pioneering and remarkable founder,” the statement reads.

The ANC extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, business associates, and colleagues of Mr. Douw Steyn following his passing. pic.twitter.com/bBjTBLT8O9

— African National Congress (@MYANC) February 4, 2025

Steyn is survived by his wife, Carolyn, his three children and their families.

The family has asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.

In a Facebook post, the former private secretary to Nelson Mandela, Zelda la Grange said she was introduced to Steyn by Madiba in 1998.

“Douw was too young to die but there are many lessons to learn from this mans’ life. He passed on knowledge and vision to so many people and the impact he made will be enjoyed by generations to come,“ she wrote.

Sad to hear about the death of Douw Steyn, a pioneer in the insurance and property industry, not to mention owning one of the most unique Rolls Royce in the world.

Condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/g8n1GwWCQJ

— Amith Gosai (@AMG133) February 4, 2025

@Carolyn_Steyn very sad to hear about Douw’s passing. Sending lots of strength and love to you.

— F1sasha (@F1sasha) February 4, 2025