Ramaphosa mourns passing of the ‘Father of Black Business’ Sam Motsuenyane at the age of 97

Johnathan Paoli

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep loss over the passing of Black-business pioneer and co-founder of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) Sam Motsuenyane at the age of 97.

Ramaphosa issued a statement on Tuesday morning, offering his condolences and those of the government to the family, friends and associates of the veteran business leader, farmer and philanthropist.

Motsuenyane was born on the 11 February 1927 at the Eignaarsfontein farm in Potchefstroom North West, and would go on to co-found the NAFCOC in 1964, with many calling him a beacon of integrity and innovation, championing ethical entrepreneurship and social responsibility.

He was an Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Baobab (Gold) in recognition of his significant personal achievements, which included leading the establishment of African Bank, and the inspiration and leadership he provided in fostering the development of Black-owned businesses and economic liberation