Muxe Nkondo, South Africa – The South African academic community and the nation as a whole are mourning the loss of renowned scholar and public intellectual, Professor Muxe Nkondo, who passed away at the age of 83 on Sunday, August 18, 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Prof Nkondo, offering his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues who have been profoundly impacted by this loss.
Prof Nkondo was a distinguished figure in South African academia, having held prestigious positions such as Vice-Chancellor at the University of Venda and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the North. His contributions extended beyond academia, as he was deeply involved in public policy, heritage, and social policy development. Among his many accolades, he was also a Harvard Andrew Mellon Fellow in English and played a significant role in the development of the Liberation Heritage Route.
President Ramaphosa highlighted Prof Nkondo’s lifelong dedication to knowledge and its dissemination, which enriched both the country and the world. "His legacy is immense and will have a lasting impact on our lives," the President stated, emphasizing the far-reaching influence of Prof Nkondo’s work.
Social media has been flooded with tributes, with many sharing their condolences and memories of Prof Nkondo. On Facebook, Mohimi Luma Tindleve expressed the collective grief, saying, "TANI HI RIXAKA HI LAHLEKERIWILE HI NHENHA, PROF MUXE NKONDO" (As a nation, we have lost a giant, Prof Muxe Nkondo). Another mourner, Freddy Zitha, remembered Prof Nkondo’s influence at the University of Venda, saying, "RIP Professor, hita mitsundzuka e Univen" (Rest in peace, Professor, we will remember you at Univen).
Prof Nkondo’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to intellectual pursuits and the betterment of society. He is survived by his wife, Prof Olga Nkondo, and their children Ntsako, Muxe, Mikateko, Zava, Mbonya, and Nkenyezi, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandson. The legacy of Prof Muxe Nkondo will continue to inspire and shape future generations in South Africa and beyond.