by Thinus Ferreira
Jabulane "Jabu" Mabuza, the lead independent non-executive director on the MultiChoice Group, has died from Covid-19 in South Africa. He was 63.
Jabu Mabuza's family in a statement announced that he had died from Covid-19 complications.
Jabu Mabuza at the time of this death was the chairman of Sun International Limited who also served on the board of Net1 and previously served as the interim executive chairman and acting CEO of Eskom. He resigned from his Eskom position at the struggling power utility last year.
"It is with deep sadness and sorrow to inform you of the passing of our beloved husband and father Dr Jabu Mabuza," says the family in a statement on Wednesday.
"He passed away on Wednesday 16 June following Covid-19 complications."
"He was a gallant fighter for the political and economic freedom of South Africans. On this day in 1976, he had joined thousands of black youths who demanded the end of Bantu education. He was later expelled for participating in that seminal protest that exposed the brutality of the apartheid regime and propelled the struggle for liberation."
"At 63, Jabu lived his life so beautifully and committed to the transformation of South Africa’s economy."
"He was a pillar of strength for his family, a dedicated servant of the country, an activist in empowering black entrepreneurs and committed to work for the transformation of corporate South Africa," the family said in the statement.
Jabu Mabuza leaves behind his wife, Siphiwe, two sons and a daughter.
The MultiChoice Group in a statement says "It is with deep sadness that the board of directors announces the passing away of Jabulane Mabuza, the MultiChoice lead independent director. He passed away during the course of the evening on 16 June 2021 due to Covid-19 related complications."
"Jabu joined the MultiChoice board as an independent director in July 2019. His invaluable insights and experience will be sorely missed and will remain a lasting part of the company's story. We mourn with and pass our condolences to his family."
