What happens when a teenage protestor from Soweto becomes a global diplomat? The journey of South Africa’s current High Commissioner to the UK is nothing short of extraordinary.
From dodging the security police in the 1970s to shaping peace policies at the United Nations, his life has been driven by one mission—justice for all South Africans.
Now, with the release of his memoir Let Not The Sun Set On You, he reflects on the lessons from his past, and the responsibilities the next generation must carry forward.
Remembering Life in Apartheid South Africa
Growing up in Soweto during the harshest years of apartheid wasn’t just difficult—it was deeply unjust.
Everyday life was rigidly segregated, with signs reminding you constantly of your place in society: “Whites Only” this way, “Non-Whites” that way.
The absurdity of it all was clear, especially in moments like the one where a newborn baby’s care was delayed because officials couldn’t decide if a white or Black ambulance should be sent. It was moments like that that planted the seed for resistance.
As a teenager, he was inspired by voices that spoke up against the regime—most powerfully, Nelson Mandela’s famous line, “I am prepared to die.”
The call to action wasn’t abstract. It was personal, real, and impossible to ignore.
Choosing Exile Over Silence
Joining the fight for freedom wasn’t a light decision. It meant danger, surveillance, and eventually, fleeing the country.
As a young activist in the aftermath of the 1976 uprising, he knew the risks of arrest were high.
So, with the help of ANC operatives, he escaped—first to Swaziland, then Mozambique, and eventually to Angola.
What was supposed to be a short stint in exile turned into nearly 20 years away from home.
Lessons Learned in Exile
One of the most unexpected challenges of life in exile was confronting personal beliefs.
Coming from a Black Consciousness background, he was surprised by the ANC’s inclusive policy: South Africa belongs to everyone, Black and white. It was a tough adjustment.
But meeting white comrades—Ronnie Kasrils, Joe Slovo, Albie Sachs—who had also risked everything helped shift his mindset.
Training in East Germany (GDR) added its own layers of culture shock.
From the rigid discipline to the awkwardness of having white women do their laundry, it was a crash course in unlearning internalised segregation.
For weeks, they’d sneak off to wash their own underwear in secret—so deep was the apartheid-era conditioning.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Over time, his view of the struggle evolved. He saw that solidarity didn’t come in one color.
Support poured in from across Africa, from countries like Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
Even in the West, where governments labeled them “terrorists,” millions of ordinary people marched in solidarity.
The UK, especially, had the largest anti-apartheid movement in Europe.
The Long Road Back Home
Coming home after nearly two decades in exile was surreal.
Many believed they’d return quickly once apartheid fell, but reality stretched that dream for years.
Once democracy came, it brought a wave of optimism—but also a critical mistake: thinking the fight was over.
While political freedom was won, economic justice remained elusive. According to him, South Africa’s leadership began with great vision but later lost its way.
Advice for South Africa’s Next Generation
His message to young South Africans is both clear and urgent: the big battle—apartheid—is over.
But now comes the hard part: creating a truly inclusive society.
South Africa is rich in resources and potential, but the gap between the privileged and the deprived must be addressed.
Without unity and bold thinking, the country could face a new kind of unrest—not racial, but social.
Why Telling the Story Matters Now
At first, he questioned whether his story was worth telling.
But with time, he realised how important it is for today’s youth to understand the price of the freedoms they enjoy.
His memoir captures both personal and political history—from escaping apartheid to working under every democratic South African president: Mandela, Mbeki, Zuma, and Ramaphosa.
He shares stories from the frontlines of diplomacy—mediating conflict in the Congo, leading UN missions in Darfur, and helping to build African Union structures like NEPAD.
Retirement Isn’t the End of the Road
As for what’s next? He laughs at the idea of retirement.
He may be stepping back from official roles, but his work isn’t done.
With Africa home to the world’s youngest population, now is the time for bold, collaborative leadership.
The vision is there, but the focus must now shift to delivery. South Africa can’t do it alone—Africa needs to unite.
Where to Find the Memoir
The memoir, Let Not The Sun Set On You: The Journey from Anti-Apartheid Activist to Seasoned Diplomat, is already available on Amazon UK and will soon be released in South Africa through Exclusive Books.
A more affordable softcover edition is also on the way.