South Africa’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu, has passed away after a short illness. According to an official dispatch, Mr Mahlangu, aged 72, died on Sunday en route to hospital in South Africa.

South Africa’s Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, paid tribute to Mr Mahlangu, who also served as ambassador to Somalia and as Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON).

“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that the minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, announces the untimely passing of a dedicated family man and public servant, Mr Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu, who passed away on August 24, 2025 on his way to a South African hospital after a short illness,” the ministry said in a statement, citing the minister.

Affectionately known as ‘MJ’, Mr Mahlangu was born on October 8, 1952 in Middleburg, Mpumalanga province.

The Department of International Relations described him as a dedicated patriot whose journey began as a student activist. He played a significant role in creating a new, democratic South Africa.

He contributed to the drafting of South Africa’s post-apartheid Constitution and was elected to the first fully democratic parliament in 1994. He had previously held positions as deputy chairperson and later chairperson of the National Council of Provinces.

“Ambassador Mahlangu was a genuine patriot whose passion for our nation was evident in his approach to implementing our foreign policy,” Mr Lamola said.