A Tribute to Ambassador
Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa
23 January 1967 – 29 September 2025
Dear Partners and Friends,
It is with profound sadness, humility, and deep respect that we at the African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) mourn the passing of Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, former Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to France, Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, and esteemed member of the AWHF Board of Governors.
A true Pan-Africanist, Ambassador Mthethwa believed deeply in the power of culture and heritage as forces of renewal, peace, and prosperity. As Minister of Arts and Culture (2014–2019) and later as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture (2019–2023), he was a tireless champion of heritage as a
cornerstone of African identity and sustainable development. He played an instrumental role in supporting the operations of the AWHF, mobilising financial and political resources, and positioning the Fund as a strategic Pan-African instrument to promote African Renascence and redress the underrepresentation of African heritage on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Since his appointment in January 2024 as South Africa’s Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, and through his role as Trustee of the AWHF, he continued to serve the Fund with distinction. His leadership of the Partnership and Fundraising Committee of the Board was exemplary, bringing clarity, rigour, and foresight to our governance. Beyond his formal responsibilities, he was a source of wisdom and strength—offering invaluable technical insight and diplomatic guidance at decisive moments in our journey.
As a highly respected voice within the Africa Group at UNESCO, Ambassador Mthethwa was central in advancing the recognition of the AWHF as a key driver of UNESCO’s Priority Africa Flagship Programme 3 (2022–2029). Through his diplomacy and advocacy, the Fund gained unprecedented visibility within the World Heritage system. His commitment was not only professional but profoundly personal—marked by integrity, humility, and a deep conviction in the transformative power of heritage to uplift communities and nations.
Today, as we mourn his untimely passing, we also celebrate his enduring legacy. Ambassador Mthethwa leaves us the memory of his Pan-African vision, his personal warmth, and his diplomatic grace. Above all, he leaves us with a powerful reminder of what it means to serve with conviction, humility, and an unshakable belief in Africa’s future.
On behalf of the Board of Governors, Management, and Staff of the African World Heritage Fund, I extend our deepest condolences to the Mthethwa family, the Government and people of South Africa, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations across Africa and the world.
Hamba kahle, Ambassador “Nathi” Mthethwa. Your light, vision, and lifelong dedication to Africa’s heritage will forever remain a beacon for the continent and for humanity.
Vusithemba Ndima
Chairperson
African World Heritage Fund
