I never had the honor of meeting Tito Mboweni in person, but like many of us, I admired him from afar. The closest we ever got was following each other on Twitter, and yet even through those brief interactions, I was able to glimpse the authentic, grounded, and humorous soul that he was.
Sir Tito was a man who transcended titles. He was more than just the former Governor of the Reserve Bank or Finance Minister, he was a symbol of integrity and resilience in a political world that often demanded compromise. His commitment to fiscal discipline and economic stability during his tenure will go down in history as crucial for South Africa’s development, but it’s his ethics that I truly admired. Tito never hesitated to speak truth to power, even when his stance wasn’t popular, always prioritizing the greater good over political convenience.
But beyond politics, Tito’s love for Limpopo, especially Mokgobaskloof, shone brightly. His connection to the land, his pride in his roots, was a reminder to us all of the importance of staying grounded, no matter how high we rise. His passion for promoting Limpopo’s beauty was infectious, and he carried his home with him wherever he went. It’s no wonder he always spoke about it with such love.
And of course, how can we forget Tito the cook? His culinary escapades on Twitter were legendary. From his overuse of garlic to his unconventional recipes that had us all laughing, Tito’s cooking was a window into his character- humble, relatable, and always willing to laugh at himself. He cooked with the same passion and confidence that he brought to his public service. Whether it was tinned fish recipes or his now-iconic dishes that trended for their quirkiness, Tito’s presence on our timelines was refreshing and always brought a smile.
And let’s not forget his loyalty to his one trusty pair of “very comfortable” shoes. It became a symbol of his consistency, just like his principles. Whether in boardrooms or in his beloved countryside, Tito was always the same man, grounded in his values and proud of his roots.
Tito Mboweni was a leader, a patriot, and, in many ways, a friend to all of us who followed him from afar. He taught us that you could lead with conviction, that you could embrace your quirks, and that there’s always room for a little humor, even in the most serious of times.
Rest in peace, Tito. You will be missed, but your legacy lives on in every one of us who admired your life and your work.
#RIPTitoMboweni #LimpopoPride #CookingLegend #Mokgobaskloof