Nelson Mandela Foundation’s Board of Trustees has announced that the organisation’s new Chief Executive is Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi.
Buthelezi will occupy this role from October 1, this year.
Board Chair Professor Njabulo Ndebele welcomed the addition of Buthelezi and said he adds valuable experience to the board.
“Dr Mbongiseni Buthelezi has over many years impressed us with his unique combination of scholarly, activist and managerial sensibilities. We are confident that he will lead the organisation decisively into the next phase of its development,” said Ndebele.
Buthelezi has led the Public Affairs Research Institute (PARI) over the last six years, been a prominent social commentator, and fulfilled the role of Associate Professor at the University of Johannesburg.
According to the foundation, he engages deeply with questions of justice, transformation, reparation, memory and archives.
Reflecting on his appointment, Buthelezi said he was honoured to be entrusted with this position.
“I believe that the Foundation has the potential to play a game-changing part in South Africa’s course over the next decade. At this moment we need courage, imagination and a steely determination to prevail in making South Africa a better country for all,” said Buthelezi.
The foundation said the Outgoing Acting Chief Executive Verne Harris expressed his continuing support for the Foundation and Buthelezi.
“This crucial appointment further strengthens the Foundation after a period of uncertainty and will boost all aspects of the work we do. I’ll remain available as long as the organisation needs me,” he said.
The Mercury