Government, on Tuesday, extended its condolences to the family of chairperson of the Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture and member of the National Planning Commission (NPC) Dr Vuyokazi Mahlati, who died yesterday.

Government Communication and Information System director-general Phumla Williams said the country had lost a great visionary leader who impacted many lives, embraced challenges and had a profound effect on the future direction of South Africa particularly on agriculture and land issues.

“Her life was characterised by her passion to drive social change to better the lives of South Africans,” said Williams.

In May 2010 she was appointed for five years to serve as one of the inaugural members of South Africa’s NPC responsible for crafting the National Development Plan.

Mahlati was also involved in business through her company Ivili Loboya.  Her company produced South Africa’s first cashmere which is created and processed in rural Eastern Cape. 

She was a recipient of the ‘2019 Woman of Substance’ award presented by the African Women Chartered Accountants.

Mahlati was a recognised global thought leader who participated in global think tanks on corporate diversity, leadership and inclusive development.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. May she rest in peace and may her legacy continue through the lives of all those she touched,” said Williams.