Middelburg: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has hailed the late Ambassador Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu as a ‘beacon of light’ and a source of inspiration for those who knew him. He was speaking at the Special Official Funeral Category 2 for Mahlangu in Middelburg, in Mpumalanga on Saturday.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mahlangu passed away at the age of 72 late last month. The Deputy President reflected on the ‘immense impact’ Mahlangu had on those around him and the life he lived. He described Mahlangu as someone who lived with purpose and passion, always striving to make a positive change in the lives of others. His kindness, generosity, and compassion were evident to all who knew him, and his legacy of love and empathy will continue to resonate.
Mahlangu served as South Africa’s High Commissioner to the Republic of Kenya, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Republic of Somalia, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON). He also served as Ambassador to the United States of America from 2015 to 2025 and was previously the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces. Mahlangu was a member of the Constitutional Assembly that drafted South Africa’s constitution following the fall of the apartheid government.
Deputy President Mashatile emphasized the significance of Mahlangu’s contributions to South Africa’s progress and the need for expedited implementation of government programmes to honor his legacy. He extended sincere condolences to the Mahlangu family, acknowledging the strides the country has made since the dawn of democracy due to Mahlangu’s efforts.