Dr. Naledi Pandor is receiving accolades from around the world as she steps down from her government role, having served as a Member of Parliament (MP) since 1994. Pandor, a distinguished and respected figure, is not returning to Parliament in the seventh administration.
In February, the outgoing International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister hinted at her retirement during an African National Congress (ANC) event in Cape Town. She confirmed that she would “in any case not hold public office” after serving in the position since 2019.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet, appointing Ronald Lamola as Pandor’s successor. Lamola previously served as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development. Since the announcement, warm wishes and tributes commemorating Pandor’s work have been flooding in.
DIRCO Director-General Zane Dangor described Pandor as one of the most principled and dynamic ministers he has ever worked with, lauding her “unrivalled” intellect. Pandor, a former teacher and lecturer, has an impressive array of qualifications. She credits her love for books and education to her anti-apartheid activist parents, Joe and Fikile Matthews, who raised her in exile.
Born in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Pandor grew up in exile, completing her education in Botswana and London, UK. She holds a professional qualification in teaching, a Master’s Degree in Education, a PhD from the University of Pretoria, a Master’s Degree in General Linguistics from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Diploma in Leadership and Development from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. Additionally, she has received honorary doctorates from several prestigious institutions, including the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Stellenbosch, University of Lisbon, and University College Dublin.
Dangor highlighted that Pandor made her mark in every area she worked in, emerging as one of the world’s leading and valued diplomats in the last five years.
Pandor’s daughter, Dr. Aisha Pandor, took to social media to honour her mother, noting that she has been an ANC member and activist for as long as she can remember. She shared fond memories of spending January 8th, their shared birthday, with family and friends while her parents served the party. Aisha praised her mother’s dedication, integrity, intelligence, and wisdom, expressing excitement for the next phase of her life and hopes that she will finally take some well-deserved rest.
Pandor is celebrated for her fearless advocacy for her country’s stance on Gaza. She has persistently called for increased action against Israel’s invasion of Palestine. Under her leadership, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and to provide more assistance to Palestinian civilians amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas militants.
During her tenure as Minister of Science and Technology, Pandor and her team successfully secured a competitive bid in 2012 to host part of the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope in South Africa. She has also served as the Minister in the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Education.
In 2022, Pandor received a Lifetime Achievement award at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards for her role in government. Ayanda Dlodlo, former Minister and World Bank Group Executive Director, praised Pandor’s unparalleled integrity and exceptional work ethic, demonstrating servant leadership.
German Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, expressed his gratitude for Pandor’s tireless diplomatic work, stating it was a privilege for Germany to work with her. Reuben Wambui, Founder of the Kenya Climate Directory, expressed disappointment at Pandor’s departure, calling her the “true embodiment of diplomatic genius” and thanking her for her excellent service.
As Dr. Naledi Pandor steps down, she leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her country and the continent, inspiring many and paving the way for future generations.
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Source: SA gov news
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