Jabu Mabuza, former Telkom chairman, is no more after succumbing to COVID-19-related complications.
Mabuza’s death was announced on Wednesday evening, with colleagues paying respect to the businessman, who previously served as two-term chairman of Telkom.
The businessman’s family announced his passing in a statement, saying: “It is with deep sadness and sorrow to inform you of the passing of our beloved husband and father Dr Jabu Mabuza. He passed away on Wednesday, 16 June, following COVID-19 complications.
“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 SA.”
Mabuza was a celebrated business leader who was credited for bringing transformation and stability to Telkom from 2012 until his departure seven years later.
The businessman had a reputation for affability and business acumen, and was, at the time of his death, serving as chairman of various companies, including Anheuser – Busch InBev / SAB Miller and Sun International.
He also served as chairman of power utility Eskom and briefly steered the ship as acting CEO.
In May last year, Mabuza was appointed as chairman of listed multinational financial technology company Net1 UEPS Technologies, succeeding Christopher S Seabrooke following his retirement.
Commenting on Mabuza’s death, Business Unity SA (BUSA) president Sipho Pityana said the passing of the celebrated businessman was devastating and a great loss for business and the country.
In a statement, Pityana said Mabuza was a role model for all South Africans and he lifted himself up by his bootstraps, moving from being a successful small entrepreneur to becoming Pityana’s predecessor as president of BUSA.
“Along the way, he became a powerhouse in the South African economy, occupying leadership positions in several South African corporates, including Tsogo Sun, where he was CEO, and SA Breweries, as well as in the public sector.
“He will particularly be remembered for his courage during the State Capture era when, as president of BUSA, he often had to deliver very difficult messages to government. He will be sorely missed at a time when we need all hands-on-deck to resolve the massive challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, and its impact on business and society. He was a consummate gentleman, a courageous leader and a true South African.”
Cas Coovadia, BUSA CEO, also expressed his condolences, saying: “I worked with Jabu when he was president of BUSA and co-chair of the CEO Initiative. He had a character and personality that was contagious. He led with courage, honour and honesty. He was a true patriot.”
The business interest group said it stands with Mabuza’s family as they mourn the businessman.
“I am dumbfounded at the sad and tragic passing of a patriot and friend. Our country has lost a beautiful person and a great leader. We remember his lovely nature and his outstanding leadership, both in the private and public sectors,” said BUSA deputy president Martin Kingston.
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