Group Executive chairman of Wananchi Leisure Investment Company, Khehla Mthembu (67), will be remembered for his commitment to the advancement of black people in South Africa’s economy.

He died early last Wednesday (July 7) at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto.

Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, extended condolences to the family, friends and associates of the “fallen colossus of South Africa's political and economic landscape”.

 “We will remember Mr Mthembu for his wisdom and humility. His role in the many community struggles and his determination in championing the participation of Africans in the mainstream of the economy. His significant role in the tourism industry over the many years will indeed leave a void. He was a mentor to many,” she said.

“As we bow in honour of the passing of a great icon, we remain encouraged by his devotion. We celebrate his legacy as an intellectual, business leader and community activist in the Black Business Council and the Black Management Forum, amongst others."

Mthembu served as Chairperson of the Gauteng Tourism Authority and was an industrialist in his own right, as a founder of New Age Beverages, PepsiCola SA amongst his successes. His life-long journey of tourism-sector leadership includes Non-Executive Director of Tourvest Holdings and Chairman of Sun International.

“To our fraternity and industry, may his pioneering spirit remain our compass for championing his vision of a transformed and inclusive economic dispensation. May his soul rest in peace, and his industrious spirit continue to be a beacon of hope and strength to his family and to all of us,” added Kubayi-Ngubane. 

Black Business Council President, Sandile Zungu, also recognised Mthembu’s contribution to economic transformation. “We will remember him as a stalwart of our movement because [of his past service] in our structures. All his life, he has always been interested in the unity of black people. He was specifically interested in the advancement of black people in the economy. He chose to work very closely with black business all his life instead of distancing himself from his colleagues,” said Zungu.

“We have lost one of the sharpest minds that came from the black consciousness movement. He had a great sense of humour and was great company, which made it easy for all people, young and old, to relate with him. He valued a person’s intellectual mind more than their age.”

Mthembu is survived by eight children.