Thank You Peter Matlare! We will carry your legacy

Devastated about Peter Matlare’s passing. Though I have admired him since his days as CEO at the SABC, my admiration was backed up by the evidence of what a genuinely great guy he was when I met him in 2014, where he subsequently tried to recruit me to join his team when he was CEO at Tiger Brands. While I respectfully declined, we remained friends. 

We met many times over the years even at his home and office as he agreed to my multiple requests for advise and mentorship and sometimes just for a good glass of wine. 

Amongst our common interests (especially the topic of advancing the socioeconomic trajectory of the Africa- continental business case), there was a tangible mutual respect between us so much so that he was determined that one day we would work together. I remember we even discussed business and investment ideas that he could get into as he retires from corporate, which he was nearing. 

He was so impressive, caring, knowledgeable, innovative and an exemplary family man. 

I am inspired that Peter represented a generation of Black leaders who are very competent, not tainted by corruption, delivered strong results across industries and have contributed to the betterment of our beautiful country and continent. 

Peter’s life and impact was exemplary of black excellence with the highest codes of integrity. We have no choice but to advance what he started. To see our roles as a symbol of rewriting a legacy that speaks to the existence of excellent and capable black leaders who are deeply invested in seeing Africa and its people grow.

My deepest condolences to his wife and daughters. Etlela hi ku rhula Tatana Matlare!