President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the passing today, 18 July 2022, of author, poet and activist Donato Francisco “Don” Mattera at the age of 87.
The President offers his deep sympathy to Mr Mattera’s family, friends, neighbours and comrades, and the leadership of the Don Mattera Foundation.
Mr Mattera was a widely acclaimed and respected political and cultural activist and journalist who received numerous acknowledgments nationally, continentally and internationally.
He was an Esteemed Member of the Order of the Baobab (in Gold) which he was awarded in 2006 for his “excellent contribution to literature, achievement in the field of journalism and striving for democracy and justice in South Africa”.
President Ramaphosa said: “As a nation we are saddened by the loss of Don Mattera’s eloquent, rousing and revolutionary voice for justice.
“As we observe International Nelson Mandela Day, we remember Bra Don as a patriot, who in the spirit of this commemorative day, did what he could, with what he had, where he was.
“May his soul rest in peace as, in his own prose, he sleeps the sleep of freedom.”
Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – 082 835 6315
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