The SABC has sent its condolences to the family of the late former SABC Board Chairperson, Eddie Funde. He died during the early hours of this morning after suffering cardiac arrest.
He was 74-years-old.
Funde led the SABC Board between 2004 and 2008. He was also the South African Ambassador to Germany.
SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says the success and growth of the SABC under Funde’s leadership bears testimony to his wealth of knowledge and great expertise.
“We are saddened to hear that he has passed on. He has really succeeded in growing the SABC to what it is today. As the SABC we would like to say that whatever he has contributed to us, will contribute a lot to what we will become in the future. We will remember him as this humble giant who was also assertive in nature.”
ANC describes Funde a hard worker
Described as a hard worker who never backed down on what he believed was right.
The former freedom fighter joined the ANC’s underground movement and went into exile when the organisation was banned.
His role in the struggle was momentous.
President of ANC Veteran’s League Dr Snuki Zikalala says, “It’s sad times for the ANC. The past two months have been difficult – seeing our icons departing from this world is not easy.”
When South Africa gained democracy in 1994, he served in various public and private agencies in an executive and non-executive capacity, included the SABC.
Former SABC Board member Christine Qunta says, “We are shocked by his passing. I am really saddened, even though I knew he wasn’t feeling well. It’s sad.”
Meanwhile, International Relations Minister, Lindiwe Sisulu says Ambassador Funde contributed in the strengthening of public diplomatic relations with Germany.
MEDIA STATEMENT
SABC MOURNS THE PASSING OF EDDIE FUNDE
Johannesburg-Tuesday, 22 May 2018 -The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) mourns the passing of Mr. Sonwabo Eddie Funde, former SABC Board Chairperson. He served on the SABC Board between 2004 -2008.
The success and growth of the SABC under his leadership bares testimony to his wealth of knowledge and great expertise. He will be remembered for his humble yet assertive nature.
Following his tenure at the SABC, Mr. Funde represented the Republic of South Africa as an Ambassador to Germany. Throughout his career, he has been well positioned to navigate the transformation needed in the country.
His meaningful contribution to society at large has not only left a positive impact but serves as the epitome of leadership that we can all draw inspiration from.
Prior to joining the SABC, Mr. Funde served in various public and private companies at executive and non- executive level, in the following capacities:
• Founder Executive Deputy Chairman for the Council of the South African Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (SATRA, which is now known as ICASA);
• President and Board Chairman of the South African Communications Forum (SACF);
• Executive Director for the South African Research and Development Trust;
• Director of the Independent Development Trust (IDT);
• Non-executive member of the Board of Directors of Eskom Holdings Limited, these are amongst other prominent roles he occupied.
The SABC Board, management and staff would like to send condolences to the Funde Family, his friends and acquaintances all over the world. May they find solace in knowing that Mr. Funde’s achievements and actions inspired others to dream, learn, do and become more. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
