South Africa Mourns the Passing of Former Deputy President David Mabuza at 64
Natalie Nyathi
David Mabuza, the former Deputy President of South Africa, has died at the age of 64 after a prolonged illness. His passing occurred on July 3, 2025, in a Sandton hospital, leaving a significant mark on South African politics.
Born on August 25, 1960, in Mpumalanga, Mabuza began his career as a teacher after obtaining his national teacher’s certificate. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. His involvement in politics started during his student years, where he was active in the Black Consciousness movement.
Mabuza entered the political arena in 1994 when he joined the Mpumalanga Executive Council. He served as the MEC for Education and became a key figure within the African National Congress (ANC). He rose to prominence as the Premier of Mpumalanga, a position he held from 2009 to 2018, during the presidency of Jacob Zuma.
In 2018, Mabuza was appointed as Deputy President of South Africa, serving until early 2023. During his time in office, he was tasked with leading initiatives to address the country’s power shortages and engaging in discussions around land reform. Despite his responsibilities, Mabuza’s health became a concern, leading to a trip to Russia for medical treatment. He was often less visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, postponing several public appearances and parliamentary sessions due to his condition.
The Secretary-General of the ANC, Fikile Mbalula, confirmed Mabuza’s death, expressing heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the nation. Mbalula described Mabuza as a “patriot” and a “freedom fighter,” noting his dedication to serving the people of South Africa throughout his life. He highlighted Mabuza’s commitment to the values of unity, discipline, and transformation.
As South Africa mourns the loss of David Mabuza, his contributions to governance and the struggle against apartheid will be remembered. His legacy serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward a united and democratic South Africa.
