BUSA President, Pitjana reflects on the life of Jabu Mabuza

Business Unity South Africa is mourning the loss of former Eskom Chair Jabu Mabuza, who passed away recently. In a heartfelt statement, BUSA President Sipho Pityana expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, highlighting Mabuza's immense contribution to both the business community and the nation as a whole. Mabuza, a towering figure in Black business leadership, leaves behind a rich legacy that spans various sectors of the economy and stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity. As the business world reflects on Mabuza's life and achievements, it is clear that his impact will be felt for years to come. Mabuza's journey in the business world exemplified resilience, determination, and a steadfast dedication to ethical leadership. Throughout his career, Mabuza displayed a remarkable ability to navigate challenging environments and lead with conviction. Rising from humble beginnings in the informal sector, he ascended to top executive positions in some of South Africa's most powerful corporations, including Telkom and various influential boards. His leadership style was characterized by a rare blend of charisma, energy, and a strong sense of responsibility. Whether championing ethical business practices or confronting corruption head-on, Mabuza always stood as a beacon of integrity, inspiring his peers and colleagues to uphold the highest standards of conduct. One of Mabuza's pivotal roles was during the tumultuous period of state capture, where he played a key part in organizing the CEO initiative to showcase South Africa's business potential to the global community. Alongside government officials, including then-Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, Mabuza spearheaded efforts to restore faith in the country's reputation and foster collaborations between business and government. His unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability set him apart as a fearless advocate for good governance and anti-corruption measures. Despite facing tremendous pressure and political upheaval, Mabuza remained resolute in his mission to safeguard the interests of business and uphold the principles of ethical leadership. Moreover, Mabuza's legacy extends beyond his business acumen to his advocacy for sustainable energy solutions and strategic investments in South Africa. His involvement in mobilizing business leaders to protest against state capture and advocate for the unlocking of potential in state-owned enterprises showcased his visionary leadership and proactive approach to addressing critical issues facing the economy. Recently, President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to raise the threshold for self-generation of electricity for companies signaled a significant shift towards fostering a conducive environment for business growth and innovation. Mabuza's advocacy for public-private partnerships and the effective utilization of state-owned entities to drive economic progress reflects his enduring dedication to sustainable development and job creation. As South Africa mourns the loss of a distinguished business leader and anti-corruption champion, Jabu Mabuza's legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of ethical leadership, transparency, and integrity in driving lasting change. His impact on the business community and his tireless efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to uphold the values he stood for. In honoring Jabu Mabuza's memory, the business world pays tribute to a true icon whose contributions will endure as a beacon of hope and progress for South Africa.