Tito Mboweni, the first black central bank governor and finance minister of South Africa, has passed away at the age of 65 after a brief illness.
The presidency confirmed his death on Saturday evening, expressing sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader and advocate for economic policy and labour rights.
Born in South Africa, Mboweni spent significant time abroad during his youth due to political circumstances, earning advanced degrees in the UK.
He returned to his homeland in 1990 and became an influential figure in government, serving as the first labour minister under Nelson Mandela.
Through his efforts, he helped establish crucial labour laws that protected workers’ rights.During his tenure as governor of the reserve bank, Mboweni was lauded for his effective management of the country’s economy, earning international recognition for his achievements.
Despite stepping down from his role as finance minister in 2021, he remained engaged with the public through social media, sharing his passion for cooking and engaging with followers in a lighthearted manner.
Mboweni’s impact on South Africa’s political and economic landscape is undeniable, and his legacy as a dedicated public servant will continue to inspire future generations.
