Durban - A giant has fallen, the sun has set, an economic activist is gone, the light of hope has dimmed, the father of the black economic empowerment is no more.
These were some of the tributes by speakers on Saturday during the funeral of businessman Dr Bongani Donald Mkhwanazi held at the Durban International Convention Centre arena.
Mourners packed the base section of the arena which takes up to 10 000 people, with some overflowing to the top section.
Mkhwanazi was described as someone who wrestled against the tide in a bid to advance economic freedom for black businessmen.
He died last week from what is suspected to have been a heart attack after falling ill at his friend Michael Dlamini’s house during a private event.
His long-time friends Sipho Ntombela and Zamani Jali described him as the “hero of the nation”. Ntombela also said that they flew together to Brazil to watch the semi-final and finals of the World Cup in 2014.
Jali, Mkhwanazi’s childhood friend said: “Don was all about the advancement of black business people. His death is a tragedy”.
Mkhwanazi was also known for his allegiance to President Jacob Zuma, who did not attend the funeral, but his wife, Bongi Ngema-Zuma, represented him. Mkhwanazi was central in the formation of the Friends of Jacob Zuma Trust which raised funds for Zuma when he was facing corruption charges. Zuma visited the family on Friday to pay his respects.
Mkhwanazi’s business partner, Prasheen Maharaj said, “He was a corporate guerrilla” while he was the first president of the Black Management Forum.
Mncane Mthunzi said: “Bra Don was super bright”. Mthunzi said they had invited Mkhwanazi to speak at the forum’s anniversary next month. In honour of Mkhwanazi, Mthunzi said they would re-title the anniversary, the Don Mkhwanazi memorial lecture.
Jabu Mahlangu, president of Business Unity South Africa, likened Mkhwanazi to a lion, saying that he did not settle for less than his all.
Mkhwanazi was also lauded for his unwavering passion for education. He held a string of qualifications including a diploma and certificates in business, management and governance from Kingston in the UK and Harvard University in the US respectively.
He started his tertiary education at the University of Zululand. At the time of his death, he was reading for his doctoral degree.
eThekwini mayor, James Nxumalo told the mourners that he was still shaken and devastated by Mkhwanazi’s death. Sihle Zikalala who spoke in his capacity as the provincial chairman of the ANC, said: “Mkhwanazi was a foremost business leader who advanced black economic emancipation. But in doing so, he attracted hostility to his side,” he said.
Zikalala said the best way to honour Mkhwanazi was to fulfil his vision. The Zulu Royal Family was among those who gave their condolences. Prince Mbonisi Zulu of the royal family said Mkhwanazi had always supported the kingdom in its activities, including the annual reed dance ceremony.
Among the dignitaries present were former Constitutional Court judge, Justice Sandile Ngcobo; Bheki Cele, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; chairman of Orlando Pirates, Irvin Khoza, and chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission, Vuma Mashinini.
Mkhwanazi’s leadership skills separated him from the rest, speakers said. In 1990, he was appointed the ANC’s senior economic adviser and, until 1994, worked closely with the ANC and former president Thabo Mbeki in international business relations.
Mkhwanazi’s eldest son, Sizwe, said his father was a fearless, bold and an honest person. Mkhwanazi also leaves his two wives, Xoliswa Mkhwanazi and Zodwa Msimang, who were both at the funeral.
He was buried at Lalakahle in Hillcrest, a plot he had bought in preparation for this day.
Sunday Tribune