MBOMBELA – Former South African Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza was laid to rest on Saturday following a state funeral service held at Hoërskool Bergvlam in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
Mabuza, who died last week in a Johannesburg hospital at the age of 64, was honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 and full military honours. President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the eulogy, describing Mabuza as a man who strove for unity and remained grounded despite his high political office.
Known to many as “The Cat”, Mabuza served as Deputy President of South Africa from 2018 to 2023. He was also Premier of Mpumalanga and Deputy President of the African National Congress (ANC). He was described by mourners as a skilled political strategist, a loyal party organiser, and a man who preferred working behind the scenes.
Ramaphosa paid tribute to Mabuza’s contribution to building a more caring and equitable South Africa. He recalled Mabuza’s consistent efforts to mediate internal party divisions, particularly within the ANC, and his calls for reconciliation across political lines.
The funeral drew senior political figures, including former President Thabo Mbeki, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, and opposition leaders such as Julius Malema. Many of them spoke of Mabuza’s ability to build relationships across party divides, and his refusal to let political differences overshadow human connection.
Health MECs and ministers from across South Africa remembered Mabuza’s role in public health, especially his leadership as chair of the South African National AIDS Council. His efforts to fight HIV, TB, and STIs earned him widespread respect among civil society organisations.
He was remembered not only for his political acumen but also for his discipline and humility. Minister Thandi Modise shared personal anecdotes of Mabuza’s early years as a teacher and trade unionist, while Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga recalled his unfailing punctuality and empathy for bereaved families.
The funeral cortege later proceeded to Barberton, where Mabuza was laid to rest by his family.
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