“MORE than a public servant but a bridge-builder, and a man deeply committed to the ideals of justice, peace and progress.”

These were the words of KZN Premier Thami Ntuli, speaking at the funeral of the late SA Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, in his hometown of KwesakwaMthethwa on Sunday.

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The service was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile, among other government leaders and dignitaries.

Ntuli said Mthethwa joins a long list of sons and daughters of KZN who have contributed immensely to the liberation struggle and advancement of democracy.

“His journey, from humble beginnings to serving our nation on the global stage, is a story of dedication, discipline and patriotic service,” said Ntuli.

The premier said Mthethwa’s departure leaves a void but also a challenge to ‘nurture and empower a new generation of South Africans who will carry forward his vision of a more united, respected and economically vibrant nation’.

“To you, son of the soil, a promise I wish to make on behalf of all of us entrusted with the leadership of your beloved home province of KwaZulu-Natal, is that our province shall never again return to conflict,” said Ntuli.

“From kwesakwaMthethwa to Kokstad, from Newcastle to Jozini, and from eDumbe to eMsinga, we shall continue to inspire new hope among our people, ensuring development reaches every community, and that our economic and social progress reflects the true spirit of reconciliation and nation-building.”

‘Unapologetic activist’

Sharing similar sentiments while delivering the eulogy, President Ramaphosa described Mthethwa as an ‘unapologetic activist’ who led with courage, conviction and compassion.

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“From the earliest days of his activism, Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa refused to accept the injustice of apartheid,” said Ramaphosa.

“Faced with laws that sought to divide, demean and destroy, he responded not with resignation, but with resolve. For him living a life of activism was not just about protest – it was about purpose.”

The president highlighted Mthethwa’s political career and role in government serving in various portfolios.

“Following the unbanning of the ANC, Nathi carried his commitment forward into what would become a lifetime of leadership.”

Mthethwa rose through the ranks of the Youth League, from regional secretary to national executive roles.

He took on responsibilities as a branch secretary in Klaarwater, as regional secretary, and then worked on national organising.

He became a Member of Parliament in 2002, and from there took up positions of greater responsibility – Chief Whip of the ANC, Chair of Parliamentary Committees, Minister of Police, then Minister of Arts, Culture, and Sport.

The ambassador died in Paris on 30 September at the age of 58.

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