*To: All Media/News Editors*
Media Statement
*06 September 2021*
*PREMIER ZIKALALA CONVEYS CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER DEPUTY MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ZANELE KAMAGWAZA-MSIBI*
The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Sihle Zikalala has on behalf of the Provincial Government of KwaZulu-Natal expressed deep sadness at the news of the passing of Former Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, Member of Parliament and National Freedom Party (NFP) Leader, Ms Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi.
In reflecting on the life of Ms kaMagwaza-Msibi, it is no exaggeration to express that “A shining light has been dimmed in our politics and development agenda with the untimely passing this morning of kaMagwaza-Msibi. We remember kaMagwaza-Msibi for her as a one of the hardworking Councillors, senior Party Leader and Member of Parliament for the NFP.
In those roles kaMagwaza-Msibi charted the way for women and girls from the townships and rural areas of our country who, through her exemplary leadership, realised that they too could succeed in the world of politics.”
KaMagwaza-Msibi rose through the ranks of government as the only female Councillor of the Nongoma Transitional Local Council as far back as 1995. Soon thereafter in 1997 kaMagwaza-Msibi served in various capacities in the Zululand Regional Council. KaMagwaza-Msibi was also later elected Mayor of Zululand District Municipality. This is where she reflected the best qualities expected of a leader of the people through her honest dedication, undying commitment and being always available to respond to the urgent needs for service delivery.
In this sad moment, on behalf of the province and people of KwaZulu-Natal, we wish to pay our deepest condolences on kaMagwaza-Msibi’s passing and to express to her family, friends and colleagues our own sense of loss.
We have worked with kaMagwaza-Msibi since the 2011 Local Government Elections and enjoyed great respect for one another, through ensuring that our cooperation is anchored on the development of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
To her entire family, may God envelope you in his protective spirit and give you strength in this painful time.
Tomorrow, 07 September 2021, at 09h00 Premier Zikalala will lead a government delegation to the family of kaMagwaza-Msibi in Ulundi to pay their respects.
May her soul Rest in Peace.
*Ends*
Issued by the Provincial Government of KwaZulu-Natal
*For more information contact Lennox Mabaso on 082 884 2304 or Gugu Sisilana on 082 889 3474*