By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Diabkwane
The nation came together at Hoërskool Bergvlam, in Mbombela on Saturday 12 July 2025, to bid farewell to former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza, a revered leader who left an indelible mark on South Africa’s journey to democracy.
Mabuza’s passing affected the people of Mpumalanga, and this was evident during the three memorial services held on the same day in his home village of Phola(near Hazyview), as well as in Middleburg and Mayflower on Thursday 10 July 2025.
President Cyril Ramaphosa read out the eulogy, and described Mabuza as a “unifier” who brought people together across party lines, racial divides, and geographical boundaries.
A Life of Service
Ramaphosa said Mabuza’s life was marked by a deep commitment to public service. He referred to the late Deputy President as a strategic thinker, a pragmatic leader, and a champion of the marginalised.
He related Mabuza’s introduction to politics while at primary school, followed by his participation in the Black Consciousness Movement, and later contributing as a Trade Unionist.
Ramaphosa noted that Mabuza preferred to be on the ground with the masses of the people, listening to their concerns and working to improve their lives. This, according to Ramaphosa, was evident during Mabuza’s tenure as Mpumalanga Premier and later on as Deputy President of South Africa.
“ We gathered here today to celebrate the life of the son of Mpumalanga, and a man of the people. David Mabuza was a revered leader, not only in his home province, but throughout the country,” said Ramaphosa.
A Humble Leader
Despite his stature, Mabuza remained humble and grounded. His humble beginnings instilled in him a mission to uplift others, and he worked tirelessly to bring development to rural parts of Mpumalanga.
Ramaphosa said, “He was most happy when he was among the people, and he was a person who never isolated himself from the people of our country, and he never lost his common touch.”
A Unifying Figure
Mabuza’s ability to unite people was evident in his work as Premier of the Mpumalanga Province as well as the former Deputy President of the Country , where he brought together different communities and fostered a sense of unity and cohesion.
Ramaphosa noted that Mabuza unified the different people of The Rising Sun, eMaswati, amaNdebele, baPedi, maPulana, Indian, Coloured, and White People of this province.
“ In his eternal sleep, he’s demonstrating that our many differences along political party, and racial lines, and the numerous disputes we may have are eclipsed by our shared desire to follow his lead in building a just, equitable, and caring society. We hoped that he would be with us for much longer, particularly during his time of retirement. He would’ve a critical role in giving guidance and advice,” said Ramaphosa.
A Loving Partner
Mabuza’s life partner, Patience Nonhlanhla Mnisi, paid tribute to his love and dedication. In a moving letter read out during the funeral service, Mnisi described Mabuza as a hardworking, and committed man who lived with a purpose greater than himself.
She also thanked him for his unquestionable role as a loving husband and father, not only to his own children, but to other young people of Mpumalanga that he solemnly cared for, and protected throughout the years of his reign.
She wrote, “I never, even in my wildest dreams, imagined a life without you, yet here I am, writing our last love letter. I trust you can hear me, for you always said ‘death is not final, but rather a transition to the spiritual world’. I soon realised that I was not sharing you with another woman, but with a greater calling.
“ I’m sorry my love, if we didn’t appreciate you enough. I know now that you did your best with all you had. You gave so much of yourself to us, to the country, and to the course. Rest now Mshengu, I’ll carry the rest of the journey with the strength you have left behind in all of us. Our last call my love was the best, little did I knew it was the last call ever and was my last time hearing your sweet voice,” said Mnisi.
A Legacy of Love and Service
Mabuza’s legacy extends beyond his political achievements. He leaves behind a nation forever changed by his dedication to public service.
Numerous other speakers, including Mabuza’s children, sibling, friends, those he mentored, as well as his comrades, took to the podium to share their memories about Mabuza’s enigmatic existence, whether in politics or life in general.
Amongst the attendees were Former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, EFF(Economic Freedom Fighters) leader, Julius Malema, UDM(United Democratic Movement) leader, Bantu Holomisa, Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, representatives from the Kingdom of Eswatini, business mogul Robert Gumede, ANC(African National Congress) Chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, and scores of other dignitaries.
Mabuza’s mortal remains were laid to rest in a private ceremony held in his Barberton homestead, attended by close relatives and family members.
