Tito Mboweni, South Africa’s first Minister of Labour in the post-Apartheid era, has passed away at the age of 65.
Reports indicate that Mboweni died in a Johannesburg hospital, surrounded by family, after a brief illness.
An anti-Apartheid activist, Mboweni played a significant role in the early years of democratic South Africa. He served as Minister of Labour from 1994 to 1999 under President Nelson Mandela, helping shape the country’s labour policies during a crucial period of transformation.
Following his term as Labour Minister, Mboweni became Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, a position he held for a decade. Later, he returned to government as Minister of Finance during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s first term.
In a statement, President Ramaphosa praised Mboweni as “a leader and compatriot who served the nation with dedication as an activist, economic innovator, and champion of labour rights.” He added that Mboweni’s passing is a shock given his vitality and continued engagement with the people of South Africa.
Mboweni’s legacy in shaping South Africa’s economic and labour landscape is one that will be remembered for years to come.
