Media Statement

12 July 2021

Minister Pandor mourns the passing of Dr Ben Ngubane

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to Dr Ben Ngubane family, friends and colleagues, following the announcement of his untimely passing, this morning.

Minister Pandor said Dr Ngubane played a pivotal role in the construction of South Africa’s science and technology firm foundation, from which South Africa continues to reap benefits as he was first Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology in 1994.

“When I become Minister of Science and Technology in 2009, I had the pleasure of benefitting from the solid foundation that Dr Ngubane and my other predecessors had put in place. It made it easy for us to focus on speeding up the implementation of the projects they had started. South Africa owes a debt of gratitude to Dr Ngubane for pioneering our science and technology.” Minister Pandor said.

Minister Pandor said her thoughts and prayers are with Dr Ben Ngubane’s family during this time of their loss. May his soul rest in peace.

Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

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