South Africa mourns passing of Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa
Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, former minister and South Africa’s envoy to France, passed away unexpectedly, leaving a legacy of dedicated public service.
The Government of South Africa has announced, with deep sorrow and profound regret, the passing of Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, South Africa’s Ambassador to France.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) described Mthethwa as a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in key ministerial roles, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. He also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee.
“His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress through its highest decision-making structures,” DIRCO said in a statement.
In December 2023, Mthethwa was appointed to strengthen bilateral ties between South Africa and France. International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said, “I do not doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community.”
ALSO READ: Minister announces plan to end load-reduction by 2026
The circumstances of his death are under investigation by French authorities. The government extended its ‘deepest and most sincere condolences’ to his family, friends and colleagues. He is survived by his wife and children.
Born on 23 January 1967, Mthethwa held several ministerial positions during his career. He served as Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2019, and as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture from 2019 to 2023. He was also a Member of Parliament from 2002 to 2023.
He played an active role in the African National Congress (ANC), serving on the party’s National Executive Committee from 2007 to 2022 and its National Working Committee, which manages the party’s day-to-day operations.
Mthethwa’s political journey began early, joining the Klaarwater Youth Organisation at 15 and rising to leadership roles within the South African Youth Congress and Congress of South African Trade Unions.
ALSO READ: Home Affairs office torched in protest, deputy minister vows action
He was also involved in underground activities with uMkhonto We Sizwe as part of Operation Vula and was arrested during the apartheid regime’s state of emergency in 1989.
Throughout his career, he held leadership roles in the ANC Youth League, trade unions, and parliamentary committees, including chairperson of the Minerals and Energy Portfolio Committee and Chief Whip of the ANC in 2008. He also served as Minister of Safety and Security from 2008 to 2009 before being appointed Minister of Police.
Mthethwa holds a Diploma in Community Development from the University of Natal, an Executive Preparatory Programme Certificate in Mining Engineering from the University of Johannesburg, and a Certificate in Leadership Communication from Rhodes University.
The government honoured his legacy as one of unwavering patriotism and dedication to public service.
