Today, on May 18, 2023, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation hosted a memorial service to honor the late Ambassador Lesedi Billy Masetlha, who passed away on May 14, 2023. The service took place at the OR Tambo Building, paying tribute to the remarkable life and contributions of Ambassador Masetlha.
Born on November 21, 1954, in Alexandra, Ambassador Masetlha was the third child of William and Daphney Masetlha. His family later moved to Dube in Soweto, where he began his formal engagement in politics as a young student. In 1973, he became a member of the South African Students Movement (SASM) while attending Orlando High School. As his involvement grew, he assumed a formal leadership role within SASM in 1974. He continued his political activities at Hebron College.
The memorial service for Ambassador Billy Masetlha was led by Acting Chief Director for Branch: Africa, Ms. Tselane Mokuena. The Masetlha family received support from various guests, including former Deputy President of South Africa, Ms. Baleka Mbethe, members of the Cabinet, current and former South African Ambassadors and High Commissioners, the Diplomatic Corps, friends, and Ambassador Masetlha’s colleagues based in Pretoria. The service was conducted in a hybrid format, with virtual participation from friends and colleagues of Ambassador Masetlha.
Ambassador Masetlha’s journey was one of unwavering commitment and resilience. He joined the youth uprising in Soweto in 1976 and played a role in the resistance against apartheid. During this time, he also established connections with underground operatives of the African National Congress (ANC). Following his refusal to testify for the State at a treason trial, he spent two years in prison. After his release in 1978, he dedicated himself to the fight against apartheid. Together with activists such as Billy, Jabu Ngwenya, and others, he co-founded the Congress of South African Students (Cosas) in 1979, which became a crucial part of the Mass Democratic Movement’s resistance against apartheid.
In 1979, Ambassador Masetlha went into exile to join the ANC abroad, while remaining a committed member of Cosas. He underwent training in the German Democratic Republic before being stationed in Botswana and Zambia. He later served as the ANC deputy representative in the United Kingdom and Ireland, where he played a pivotal role in welcoming Nelson Mandela during his first visit to the country after his release.
Following the dawn of democracy in 1994, Ambassador Masetlha served the South African government in various capacities. He held positions such as Head of the Intelligence Services, Director-General of the Department of Home Affairs, and Ambassador of South Africa to the Republic of Algeria. His dedication to public service continued until his unfortunate passing.
The memorial service for Ambassador Lesedi Billy Masetlha was a testament to his immense contributions to the struggle for freedom and the subsequent building of a democratic South Africa. His legacy as a fearless activist, diplomat, and public servant will continue to inspire future generations.
