The Rhodes University community joins millions of South Africa in paying homage to one of the finest sons of the soil, Mr Monde Tabata, who passed away on Thursday. He died at 60 years of age after fighting COVID-19 complications for some time.
Mr Tabata studied Bachelor of Arts at Rhodes University, majoring in Political Studies and Industrial Sociology in 1985. He was a founding member of the Black Student Movement and was the president of its rugby union.
Because of his undying love for rugby, he was elected South African Rugby Council member and was dubbed “Mr Fix it”, because of his compassion and willingness to solve problems affecting the sport. He was entrusted with the role of an administrator to Border rugby and Eastern Province during the times of financial distress of the unions. He was later co-opted into South African rugby in 2010 as an independent member and he chaired several committees until his death.
He also worked for Eskom and held Chief Executive Officer (CEO) roles with the National Economics Initiative and National Small Business Council. He was the Deputy CEO of Megapro Marketing in a wide range of business careers including serving as Chairman of the East Rand Youth and Children’s Trust.
Rhodes University would like to send deepest condolences to the Tabata family, colleagues, comrades and friends. Umntwanomgquba was a true embodiment of black excellence, a sport fanatic and a rare breed. Sithi hamba kahle qhawe lesizwe. Lala ngoxolo Senzwa, Ntom’ntwana, Mbala ka Nqoshe, Mpinga!