The Minister of Social Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu, is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Deputy Director-General, Welfare Services, Ms Conny Nxumalo who met her untimely death in the early hours of yesterday (22  August 2020) morning. 

“The DSD family learnt with great sadness the sudden passing of 'South Africa’s Chief Social Worker' who lived the life of service to the best of her abilities until her last breath. A mentor who was always ready to provide advice on the work of the Department, and very knowledgeable on any issue related to welfare matters in particular. She made particularly valuable contribution in championing innovative programmes to protect children and was one of the architects of the Department’s national action plan to combat violence against women and children as well as the anti-substance abuse interventions. With the outbreak of COVID-19 in South Africa, Ms Nxumalo was in the forefront of our national response, representing the Department and the sector as a whole at the NATJOINT”, said Minister Zulu. 

“The cruel hand of death has robbed our nation of an illustrious leader who served with distinction. I offer my deepest condolences to her family and friends as we mourn her untimely passing and celebrate a remarkable life dedicated to bettering the lives of the most vulnerable in our country. We have lost a strong woman in a month dedicated to celebrate trailblazing women like her. As we mourn her passing, let us remember to celebrate her life and achievements. May her soul rest in eternal peace”, added Minister Zulu. 

Ms Conny Nxumalo, who was larger than life was admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 related complications. We had hoped that she will recover and be with her family and with time return to work as she was in the frontline of our national efforts so that many in our country can benefit from her work. So much of our work in protecting children, older persons and persons with disabilities are the result of her extraordinary vision and leadership.  

“Sis Conny” as Ms Nxumalo was affectionately known throughout the Department, was ever cheerful and always willing to lend a helping hand to peers and juniors alike. In her memory, we commit ourselves to pick up where she left and always emulate her hard work. Her life and legacy will forever be engraved in our hearts and minds. She will be dearly missed by the entire public service,” concluded Minister Zulu. 

Ms Nxumalo was a qualified social worker with a Master’s degree in public and development management with the University of the Witwatersrand. She first worked in different settings as a social worker in the Provincial spheres and later joined the National Department of Social Development in 2003, as a Director for Substance abuse focusing on policy development, legislation, program monitoring and implementation in the area of substance abuse. 

As we mourn and celebrate the life of this remarkable woman, we urge all members of the DSD family to remain vigilant in the face of the persistent threat that COVID-19 poses. Even as the lockdown regulations have been eased, we also urge all South Africans to continue exercise caution by practicing social distancing, washing their hands, wearing a mask and avoiding crowded places.  

Ms Nxumalo leaves behind three beautiful daughters.

 

Issued by GCIS on behalf of The National Department of Social Development