KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli delivered heartfelt remarks at the funeral service of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, His Excellency Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, paying tribute to a man he described as “a patriot, a bridge-builder, and a servant of the people.”
Honouring a Life of Service
Addressing mourners that included Mrs. Philisiwe Mthethwa (maButhelezi) and the Mthethwa family, President Cyril Ramaphosa, members of government, the diplomatic corps, and traditional leaders, Premier Ntuli reflected on Ambassador Mthethwa’s remarkable legacy of service, leadership, and devotion to South Africa.
He described the late Ambassador as “more than a public servant — he was a patriot deeply committed to the ideals of justice, peace, and progress.”
“Ambassador Mthethwa’s journey, from humble beginnings to serving our nation on the global stage, is a story of dedication, discipline, and patriotic service. His untimely passing comes at a difficult moment when seasoned leaders and diplomats of his calibre are most needed,” Premier Ntuli said.
A Statesman and Bridge-Builder
Premier Ntuli emphasised that Ambassador Mthethwa’s work extended far beyond diplomacy, representing the essence of bridge-building, trust, and cooperation across nations. His passing, he said, left a void not only in KwaZulu-Natal but in the entire country and diplomatic community.
He highlighted that Mthethwa’s contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggle, democratic transformation, and international diplomacy reflected a lifelong commitment to peace, unity, and prosperity.
A Message of Unity and Renewal
In his tribute, Premier Ntuli tied Ambassador Mthethwa’s legacy to the current spirit of unity and renewal in South Africa, noting that citizens had called upon all political parties to work together under the Government of National Unity.
“Our citizens — from all races, backgrounds, and walks of life — have reminded us that our collective strength lies not in what divides us, but in what we can achieve together when guided by the spirit of service and shared destiny,” he said.
He pledged, on behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, to honour Ambassador Mthethwa’s memory by continuing to build a province defined by peace, unity, and shared prosperity.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli delivered heartfelt remarks at the funeral service of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, His Excellency Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, paying tribute to a man he described as “a patriot, a bridge-builder, and a servant of the people.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Premier Ntuli concluded by celebrating Ambassador Mthethwa’s enduring influence as a statesman and visionary.
“Nyambose, wena wamaqhawe — may your soul rest in peace, knowing that your vision continues to inspire a generation determined to carry the torch of unity, development, and hope,” he said.
Ambassador Mthethwa’s life and legacy were remembered as a powerful testament to ethical leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service.