The African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape has learnt with deep sadness the passing of one of the dedicated clergymen who was sincerely committed to his calling, Rev Canon Professor Lulama Ntshingwa, President of the South African Council of Churches (SACC)-Eastern Cape.
Rev Canon Professor Ntshingwa died in the early hours Saturday, 21 June 2025 at the East London St Dominic Hospital. His passing is an enormous loss not only to his family and Anglican Church, but to the entire country as he made a significant impact in the lives of many South Africans.
Rev Canon Ntshingwa played a critical role in the struggle against apartheid as one of the brave clergymen who used church as a site to fight injustices and human rights violations. He led many marches during the brutal Ciskei era protesting against the repressive regime that killed many activists.
He was an outstanding Christian, a devout Anglican and spiritual leader, humanitarian and a committed family man with laudable qualities we need to build our still healing and cohering nation. Rev Canon Ntshingwa believed that the church had to be practical and pastoral, and to root out every injustice in our society, hence his emphasis that the church had to support the trade unions in their efforts to improve the conditions of the workers.
Rev Canon Ntshingwa served in many sectors amongst them being the Eastern Cape Aids Council Men’s Sector Chairperson , CEO of the Eastern Cape Council of Churches and Moral Regeneration Movement.
Canon Ntshingwa will be fondly remembered for his devotion and commitment towards church, education, community building; his works and legacy bear testimony of a true servant leader of the people.
History will count Canon Lulama Ntshingwa among a number of progressive religious leaders whose faith inspired them to confront oppression and injustice.
His passing away sends a reminder to all of us to be true to the cause of freedom against injustices and remain commited to changing lives of the people for the better.
We deep our banners in honour of his contribution to our nation and believe that he left us a legacy that must be emulated by all in order to rid our nation of poverty and hunger.
We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to Ntshingwa family, relatives and the Anglican Church. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,
Hamba kahle, faithful priest in the church of God.
Phumla Bhele, Khuboni.
May he rest in peace, and rise in glory.
ENDS….
ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS -EASTERN CAPE PROVINCE
Enquiries :
Cde Gift Ngqondi
Provincial Head of Communications
ANC Eastern Cape
Mobile No- 0849519924/0848439706
