Tito Mboweni’s funeral: He wasn’t just incorruptible but also humble

Former finance minister and ANC stalwart Tito Mboweni was buried on Saturday, following a special provincial funeral in Limpopo.

Mboweni died last week at the age of 65.

A humble giant who fought corruption

President Cyril Ramaphosa was among those who spoke at the funeral, held at Nkowankowa Stadium outside Tzaneen, Limpopo.

He praised Mboweni’s humility and humanity.

“He was respected by leading economists, titans of business, labour leaders and ordinary people in our country.

“Yet despite his stature and profile, he never lost the common touch. He had a gift to connect to people. He understood them and he had a way to make people feel special and made them have a sense that they mattered.”

“He could relate to people from all walks of life. He was an empathetic man. He valued character over pedigree. And he was no cynic. He looked for the good in each person – and usually found it.”

Ramaphosa said the nation would remember Mboweni’s aversion to a flashy lifestyle.

“Tito Mboweni wasn’t just incorruptible. He wasn’t just an avowed enemy of corruption throughout his life in public office.

“In time we will look back at those social media posts of Tito defending his infamous brown shoes that had seen better days.

“We may then read what was perhaps the deeper, intended meaning: That when you hold public office when you are entrusted with leadership, you must be of the people. Not standing above them, not looking down on them.”

Ramaphosa said the country was better off for Mboweni’s steadfastness and resilience as minister.

“As we bid you farewell my brother, my comrade, my fellow fly fisherman, your legacy is of a successful transformation from a freedom fighter to a businessman, central banker, and politician.

“You were a true servant leader, admired and loved by the people. You delivered on what was required of you.

“You acquitted yourself with dignity and with honour in the ANC, in government and beyond. You depart this world with that dignity, that honour and that reputation intact.”

“You did not disgrace or betray your movement or the people of this country. You were a credit and an asset to both.”

“This is the most we can hope for as leaders. This is the highest we should aspire to.”

Laid to rest

After Ramaphosa’s remarks, a procession led Mboweni’s body to the Bordeaux (eBodweni) cemetery where the former minister was laid to rest. 

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Mboweni’s body lay in state at Sasekane Village on Friday, with community members visiting to pay their last respects.

There were also condolence books at designated areas within the stadium for those who wanted to leave a written tribute or message to the family.

Special Provincial Official Funeral

President Cyril Ramaphosa declared Mboweni’s funeral a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2.

Special provincial funerals are divided into two categories and can be provided to an outstanding or distinguished person on request to the president by the premier of the province.

The State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy manual of 2016 states at Category 2 ceremonies the national flag shall fly at half-mast at every flag station in the province, including the burial site or cremation facility, on the day of the burial or cremation until that evening.

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Mboweni: A life of service

Current Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said the nation had “lost a titan”.

“A thinker, a doer, and above all a patriot.

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“It is hard to imagine the grief felt by those closest to him. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.

The ANC added that Mboweni was a “testament to a life lived in sacrifice, dedication and selfless service to the people of South Africa”.

Additional reporting by Faizel Patel

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