South Africa Mourns Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa After Sudden Death in Paris
Body of late diplomat arrives home as officials pay tribute during memorial in Pretoria
South Africa, PUREWILAYAH.COM - South Africa is in mourning following the sudden death of its Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, whose passing in Paris has deeply affected government officials, colleagues, and citizens alike.
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola confirmed that the ambassador’s remains arrived in the country on Friday before being transported to KwaZulu-Natal for burial.
Speaking at the official memorial service held in Pretoria, Lamola described the nation’s grief, recalling the moment when news of Mthethwa’s death was first received.
“More than a week ago, our nation received the harrowing news of Ambassador Mthethwa’s passing… The news of his passing shook us all profoundly,” Lamola said.
Distinguished Diplomatic Role
At the time of his death, Mthethwa was serving as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to France, also accredited to Monaco.
Since his appointment in 2023, he played a key role in strengthening diplomatic relations between South Africa and France, as well as advancing South Africa’s presence in global affairs.
Lamola noted President Cyril Ramaphosa’s tribute, highlighting Mthethwa’s contributions to transforming international power dynamics through diplomacy.
Return to His Homeland
Lamola confirmed that the ambassador’s body had been formally repatriated and received by South African authorities.
“He will shortly be en route back to KwaZulu-Natal, where he will be laid to rest in his beloved rural home of KwaMbonambi,” Lamola stated.
The minister also expressed gratitude to Ambassador David Martino and the French government for their support following Mthethwa’s passing.
Tributes and Memorial Attendance
The memorial service was attended by high-ranking officials and prominent figures, including ANC Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, and Malusi Gigaba. Members of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), both in South Africa and Paris, were commended for managing diplomatic processes during the crisis.
Lamola praised senior DIRCO leadership, including DDG Maud Dlomo and DDG Zane Dangor, for guiding the mission during a period he described as “very difficult.”
A Legacy in Public Service
Before his diplomatic appointment, Mthethwa served as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. He passed away at the age of 58 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Paris. His family conducted a traditional ritual at the hotel to retrieve his spirit ahead of repatriation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral, scheduled to take place on Sunday in KwaZulu-Natal, honoring Mthethwa’s decades of service to the nation. (PW)