On Thursday (10 July), memorial services were expected to take place in three regions of Mpumalanga, where Mabuza served as premier from 2009 to 2018.

Mabuza (64) served as deputy president of South Africa from 2018 to 2024 and was a prominent figure in national politics. He passed away on Thursday (3 July) following a short illness. 

Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa declared a Category 2 State Funeral, scheduled for Saturday (12/7) at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, with full military ceremonial honours. A national mourning period is being observed from 7 to 12 July, during which the South African flag is flown at half-mast, gauteng.net reported.

The stadium was chosen to accommodate the large number of expected mourners, including dignitaries, political leaders, and members of the public.

Funeral Programme and Protocols

The funeral will begin at 10:00 with a formal state ceremony, followed by a religious service. Various political figures and community leaders are expected to deliver eulogies. 

The event will follow all required health and safety protocols, including strict crowd management to ensure a respectful and orderly farewell.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula described Mabuza’s passing as a significant loss for both the party and the country.

Born in rural Mpumalanga, Mabuza – affectionately known as “DD” – began as a teacher and trade unionist before rising to political prominence. He was ANC Deputy President from 2017 to 2022.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Pres. Ramaphosa praised him as a “committed cadre” of the anti-apartheid struggle and later, a dedicated public servant. 

Parliamentary leaders highlighted his focus on accountability, intergovernmental coordination, and land reform. Traditional leaders credited him for supporting cultural institutions and rural development.

Complex legacy

Mabuza’s legacy is seen as complex: he was both a “dominant politician” and a master strategist instrumental in Ramaphosa’s rise, though his career also faced controversy, including allegations of procurement irregularities. Nevertheless, many remembered his discipline, humility, and devotion to public service.

Known by many as “The Cat,” Mabuza was deeply committed to education. According to eNCA, he was known to spend his last cents to help students in need.

President Ramaphosa extended his deepest condolences to the Mabuza family and wished them strength during this time of national reflection on the life of a family man, activist, educator, and leader “who contributed significantly to South Africa’s freedom and development”.

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