Dr. NNG

Obituary For

Dr Nkululeko Ntuthuko Godfrey Mahlaba

Dr Nkululeko Ntuthuko Godfrey Mahlaba, affectionately known as Junda, was born on 23 August 1981 in Nkande Village, eNquthu, KwaZulu Natal, to Mrs Khanyisile Joyce Mahlaba and the late Mr Doctor Richard Mahlaba. He departed this life on 4 July 2026, leaving behind a legacy of distinguished service, compassionate leadership and an enduring commitment to the people of KwaZulu Natal and South Africa.

From an early age, Dr Mahlaba displayed an exceptional sense of purpose, intellectual curiosity and a deep commitment to serving others. Raised on the values of humility, discipline and compassion, he developed a profound appreciation for education and community service, principles that would define his life's journey.

His educational journey began at Emdlenevini Lower Primary School before continuing at Bembaskop Intermediate School. He later attended Vryheid Comprehensive High School, where he completed his matric. In 2000, he enrolled at the University of Natal to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). During his years as a medical student, he emerged as a principled student leader, driven by a desire to ensure that financially disadvantaged students were afforded an equal opportunity to pursue higher education.

His integrity and commitment to justice earned him the confidence of his peers, who elected him President of the Students' Representative Council, serving from 2003 to 2005. During his tenure, he championed increased student financial support, opposed the exclusion of deserving students and successfully engaged the University leadership on expanding student accommodation. These formative experiences laid the foundation for a lifetime of servant leadership.

After completing his medical degree in 2005, Dr Mahlaba began his career in public healthcare, serving his internship before joining Madadeni Regional Hospital as a Medical Officer. In 2008, he established his private medical practice while continuing to dedicate himself to improving the wellbeing of communities. Medicine was more than his profession; it was his calling.

His passion for service naturally evolved into public leadership. He served with distinction as Regional Chairperson of the African National Congress Youth League in the Emalahleni Region before being elected Regional Chairperson of the African National Congress. In March 2019, he became Executive Mayor of Newcastle Local Municipality, where he provided visionary leadership rooted in accountability and service to the people.

In July 2022, Dr Mahlaba was elected Provincial Treasurer of the African National Congress and was subsequently appointed Member of the Executive Council for Human Settlements and Public Works in KwaZulu Natal. In 2023, he was entrusted with the portfolio of Sport, Arts and Culture, where he championed the growth of grassroots sport and the promotion of arts and culture across the province. Following the 2024 General Election, he was appointed Chairperson of Committees in the KwaZulu Natal Legislature, a responsibility he fulfilled with distinction until his untimely passing.

A firm believer in lifelong learning, Dr Mahlaba completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Local Economic Development in 2022 and a Master of Commerce in Leadership Studies in 2025. His academic achievements reflected his belief that effective leadership is strengthened by knowledge, integrity and continuous personal development.

Throughout his life, Dr Mahlaba remained committed to the ideals of ethical leadership, public service and human dignity. He will be remembered as a compassionate medical practitioner, a distinguished public servant, a respected political leader and a man whose greatest fulfilment came from serving others. The words of Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu, "My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom. Tell my people that I love them. They must continue the fight," reflected the values by which Dr Mahlaba chose to live. To him, they spoke of sacrifice, resilience, love for one's people and the enduring responsibility to leave society better than one found it.

His life also echoed the enduring call, "Do not mourn, organise." In honouring his memory, the greatest tribute we can pay is not only to celebrate his remarkable life, but to continue the work to which he dedicated himself: serving with integrity, uplifting communities, defending justice and striving for a more compassionate and equitable society. His legacy lives on in the institutions he strengthened, the communities he uplifted and the countless lives he touched through his humility, generosity and dedication.

Dr Nkululeko Ntuthuko Godfrey Mahlaba is survived by his beloved wife, Dr Busi Mahlaba; their cherished twins, Thandamajunda and Zamajunda; his devoted mother, Mrs Khanyisile Joyce Mahlaba; his brother; his four sisters; together with his nieces, nephews and a large extended family, all of whom will continue to honour his memory and cherish the enduring legacy of a life devoted to service.

Hamba Kahle Junda, Nhlangambili, Mfokabhulamathamalala, BhulaBhush, Mabhazule, Maphawulahle … Ophansi Akawi

"When I die, take my remains to my mother. Tell her that I died like a soldier, fighting for the freedom of my people."