The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) paid tribute to the late Tito Mboweni, its first black Governor and one of South Africa’s most influential public servants, during a commemorative event celebrating his remarkable legacy of leadership and service.
Mboweni, who passed away in 2024, played a significant role in South Africa’s democratic and economic transformation. While he held several influential positions throughout his career, his decade-long tenure as Governor of the Reserve Bank remains one of the defining chapters of his public life.
The event brought together prominent local and international leaders, including Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
A key feature of the programme was the Tito Mboweni Memorial Lecture, delivered by Professor Axel A. Weber under the theme, “Global Imbalances – Addressing the Problems.”
Professor Weber highlighted the need for stronger international cooperation, improved trade governance and coordinated macroeconomic policies to address global economic imbalances and support sustainable growth.
Throughout the event, speakers reflected on Mboweni’s commitment to public service, institutional integrity and economic stability. His leadership helped strengthen the credibility and independence of the Reserve Bank during a critical period in South Africa’s democratic journey.
The Mboweni family welcomed the tribute and thanked the Reserve Bank for preserving his legacy.
“To the South African Reserve Bank: you have done something rare,” the family said.
“You have taken our grief and shaped it into purpose; you have turned remembrance into inspiration.”
The commemoration served as a powerful reminder of the values that defined Mboweni’s life and career: leadership, integrity, courage and an unwavering commitment to South Africa’s progress.
by Jos-lene Benekema
