Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa, South Africa’s ambassador to France, was tragically found dead in Paris after reportedly falling from the 22nd floor of a hotel near Porte Maillot. The 58-year-old diplomat’s body was discovered on Tuesday, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Local reports suggest that the hotel window had been forced open prior to his fall. His wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, had reported him missing after receiving a “worrying message” the previous evening. His phone was last traced near the Bois de Boulogne, prompting police searches with canine teams in case of suicide concerns. French authorities have confirmed that the investigation into his death is ongoing.
Who is Philisiwe Buthelezi?
Philisiwe Buthelezi is best known as the wife of the late Nathi Mthethwa. She is a South African businesswoman with a strong professional background in finance and corporate affairs. The couple met during an African National Congress (ANC) meeting, and their relationship grew into a celebrated partnership.
On February 16, 2013, Nathi and Philisiwe tied the knot in a lavish wedding ceremony that drew several high-profile guests, including then-President Jacob Zuma and top ANC officials. The wedding highlighted the couple’s strong political and social connections within South Africa.
Although she has largely stayed out of the political spotlight compared to her husband, Philisiwe has established herself as a professional figure in her own right.
Nathi Mthethwa’s Political Career
Born on January 23, 1967, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Mthethwa rose through the ranks of the ANC, becoming one of the party’s most prominent figures.
- He served as Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2019.
- He later became Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture from 2019 to 2023.
- He was part of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (2007–2022) and the National Working Committee, influencing key policy decisions.
- His political career began in grassroots activism; in 1990, he became the ANC’s first Branch Secretary in Klaarwater, KZN.
- He also served as a Member of Parliament from 2002 until 2023.
Mthethwa was regarded as a dedicated leader who played a central role in shaping South Africa’s cultural and sports policies.
Nathi Mthethwa’s Net Worth in 2025
Though precise figures are scarce, reports estimate that Nathi Mthethwa’s net worth was around $1.25 million in 2025. His wealth came from years of public service, ambassadorial duties, and various benefits associated with his long-standing role in government and politics.
Final Word
The death of Nathi Mthethwa has sent shockwaves through South Africa and the international community. While investigations into the tragic incident continue, his wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, stands as both a grieving widow and a successful professional in her own right.
Mthethwa leaves behind not only his family but also a political legacy built on decades of service to the ANC and the Republic of South Africa.