Premier Sihle Zikalala conveys condolences on the passing of Former Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Hlengiwe Mkhize
The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Sihle Zikalala has on behalf of the Provincial Government of KwaZulu-Natal expressed his shock and sadness at the news of the passing of former Minister of Home Affairs and Higher Education and long-serving Member of Parliament Prof. Hlengiwe Mkhize.
“It is with deep sadness that we learn of the passing of Prof Hlengiwe Buhle Mkhize. Prof. Mkhize hailed from this province in Nkandla and dedicated her entire adult life to serving the people of this country in various capacities especially since the advent of democracy in 1994,” said Premier Zikalala.
The Premier said: “Prof. Mkhize distinguished herself as one of the greatest activists for the emancipation of women, and the protection of the girl-child. Prof. Mkhize served alongside Archbishop Tutu in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as Chair of the Reparations Committee which laid the basis for the government of national unity at national level and in KwaZulu-Natal.
Between 2005 – 2009 Prof. Mkhize was posted as Ambassador of South Africa to the Netherlands
Upon her return from diplomatic service she was appointed Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Deputy Minister of Higher Education in 2012, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Deputy Minister of Telecoms and Postal Services, and later as Minister of Home Affairs and Higher Education and Training.
Prof. Mkhize was a well-rounded professional who served as a lecturer, diplomat and bureaucrat in the democratic government. An accomplished intellectual, Prof. Mkhize held a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, social work and sociology from the University of Zululand, a BA (honours) in Psychology and a Masters in Clinical Psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
“We will remember her dedication to the cause of women’s emancipation when she served as Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities and when she was elected as Treasurer-General of the ANC Women’s League.
The country owes a debt of gratitude to women of valour and dedication such as Prof. Mkhize for defying the odds, sacrificing their personal careers in order to serve the nation,” said Premier Zikalala.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family of Prof. Mkhize who have lost a Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt and Grandmother. We pray for God’s strength during this sad time,” said Premier Zikalala.
Premier Zikalala on the passing of Vibe FM broadcaster Sicelo Xulu
Meanwhile, the Premier also noted with sadness the passing of VIBE FM journalist Sicelo Xulu yesterday.
“Mr Xulu was a permanent feature during our regular Sunday media briefings on Covid-19 and reported extensively on government programmes in KwaZulu-Natal and the rest of the country. As a community media practitioner Mr Xulu played a crucial role as a the closest and trusted purveryor of information and news. We convey our condolences to Mr Xulu’s family, colleagues and friends and wish them strength as they go through this sad moment in their lives”.
May Their Souls Rest in Peace.
