PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA PAYS TRIBUTE: SPECIAL OFFICIAL FUNERAL FOR LATE AMBASSADOR NATHI MTHETHWA

The late South African France Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 for the late Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, who passed away on September 30, 2025, in Paris, France. The funeral will be held on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal.

Ambassador Mthethwa dedicated 15 years to serving in Cabinet, holding various portfolios, including Sport, Arts and Culture, Police, and Safety and Security. His tenure in the National Executive followed a lifetime of political involvement and leadership.

President Ramaphosa has expressed his deepest condolences to Ambassador Mthethwa's family, including his wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the extended Mthethwa and Buthelezi families. The President assured the families of the nation's appreciation for Ambassador Mthethwa's diverse roles in serving the country.

The Special Official Funeral Category 2 will entail ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service. The National Flag will be flown half-mast from October 9, 2025, until the evening of the funeral on October 12, 2025, as a mark of respect for the late Ambassador.

Ambassador Mthethwa's legacy will live on through his contributions to South Africa's growth and development. His dedication to public service and his passion for leadership will be remembered for generations to come.

The nation will come together to pay tribute to Ambassador Mthethwa's life and service. The Special Official Funeral Category 2 is a testament to his remarkable contributions to the country.