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Ex-Minister and current South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa has died.
Mthethwa, who served as Minister of Arts and Culture in 2014 and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture in May 2019, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture passed away in Paris at the age of 58.
He was originally posted to the French Embassy in February 2024 and was also South Africa’s permanent delegate to UNESCO.
According to news report, Mthethwa died in a fall from the 22nd floor of a hotel after going missing.
He disappeared yesterday, but his body was found today at the Hyatt Hotel in Paris. His body was eventually found nearby, “right above” the famous Hyatt Hotel in Porte Maillot, the Mirror reported.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister Ronald Lamola described Mthethwa as a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios.
He also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee.
“His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress through its highest decision-making structures.
“In his diplomatic role, to which he was appointed in December 2023, Ambassador Mthethwa was tasked with strengthening the vital partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France.
“I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community,” said Minister Lamola.
The General on Mthethwa
Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Bantu Holomisa, said Mthethwa served the nation with distinction, demonstrating unwavering dedication to advancing South Africa’s diplomatic and strategic interests.
“His professionalism, wisdom, and commitment earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and international partners alike.
“During my recent visit to the French Republic for the IHEDN Forum on the African Continent (FICA) and related bilateral defence engagements in June 2025, Ambassador Mthethwa, through the Embassy, provided vital logistical support, mobility arrangements, and a comprehensive briefing to our delegation prior to departure.
“His guidance and insights were invaluable in ensuring that our engagements were well-prepared,
strategically aligned, and impactful in representing South Africa’s interests.
“The meticulous support he provided, including coordinating transportation, scheduling, and access to key stakeholders, significantly contributed to the success of our working visit to France, making the trip smooth, effective, and productive.
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“One thing Ambassador Mthethwa always never forgot to mention whenever we were in the same
room, to audiences who cared to listen, is that he received his early military training under the
supervision of the Transkei Defence Force officers, where he completed a special military training
course in Port St. Johns for ANC liberation movement operatives during the struggle.
“That formative period helped shape his disciplined approach to service and his deep understanding of strategic defence matters. This early experience informed the wisdom, perspective, and professionalism he later brought to his distinguished diplomatic career,” he remarked.
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