INLSA
Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the new chairwoman of the African Union Commission, joins eThekwini mayor James Nxumalo during a walkabout in Durban yesterday. Enthusiastic crowds in the city centre applauded Dlamini-Zuma, who was honoured at a gala dinner hosted by the municipality last night.
Home Affairs Minister and African Union Commission chairwoman-elect Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma was yesterday praised as a “super-diplomat” who has contributed “selflessly” to the people of SA.
Dlamini-Zuma, who will soon be the first woman to head the commission, was hosted at Durban’s city hall last night when the metro held a farewell dinner in her honour.
Mayor James Nxumalo said the city was proud Dlamini-Zuma’s political activism had begun in Durban.
He noted that Dlamini-Zuma had served under three presidents including Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma.
Dlamini-Zuma had been |exemplary and had excelled |in her postings as health, |foreign affairs and home affairs minister. She had set the bar high to inspire the youth, especially women, to work hard in order to achieve in life, Nxumalo said.
“We salute your selfless contribution to the people of SA. You’re a South African super-diplomat,” he said
KwaZulu-Natal MPL Doris Sikhosana, who was in exile with Dlamini-Zuma, spoke about her sacrifice and contribution to the struggle.
“She always gave her best in all she did and set an example for all of us. She feels and she is very compassionate,” said Sikhosana.
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Sibongiseni Dhlomo said Zuma-Dlamini had an extensive grasp of the workings of the AU and enjoyed a warm |relationship with her colleagues in the organisation.
“We believe comrade Dlamini-Zuma can contribute to the |work that has been done by other AU leaders to improve the lot of Africans,” said Dhlomo. “She was a pioneer of anti-tobacco laws in this country and pioneered progressive health policies,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the eThekwini municipality rolled out the red carpet for Dlamini-Zuma and hosted a parade in her honour.
