Former Eskom board chairman Jabu Mabuza dies of Covid-19 complications
South African well-known businessman and former Eskom Board Chairman Jabu Mabuza has passed away.
His family says he died of Covid-19 complications on the evening of 16 June.
Mabuza was appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the Chairperson of the Eskom board in 2017.
He resigned from the board in January 2020.
Mabuza also held the position as Chairperson of Sun International Ltd, as well as the lead independent non-executive director on the board of the MultiChoice Group at the time of his passing.
In a statement, his family describe him as a fighter for the political and economic freedom of South Africans.
“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 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 cooporate SA,” reads the family statement.
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The family asked for privacy at the time of mourning.
“The family is grateful for the support and prayers during this time. We request the public afford the family privacy and space as we process the passing of our father.”
He is survived by his wife and three children.
Business Leadership South Africa has described Mabuza as a formidable leader.
“Dr Jabu Mabuza was a formidable leader, very well respected for his business acumen and independent leadership. It was under his leadership as Chairperson of BLSA, that big business took the firm decision to publicly denounce the state capture project and make a solid pledge towards ethical leadership; protecting our key institutions and working collaboratively with Government towards building a capable state.
"Sincerest condolences to the Mabuza family. God grant them strength during this difficult time.”
