### Remembering David Mabuza: A Legacy of Service and Leadership Former Deputy President David Mabuza, who passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 64, is being honored with a State Funeral Category 2 in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, on July 12, 2025. President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the eulogy, reflecting on Mabuza's significant contributions to South Africa as a unifying leader and dedicated public servant. Mabuza's death has prompted a national period of mourning, highlighting his impact on the political landscape of the country [https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-12-ramaphosa-to-deliver-eulogy-at-former-deputy-president-david-mabuzas-funeral][https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/2025-07-12-cyril-ramaphosa-pays-tribute-to-david-mabuza-at-state-funeral]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Background on David Mabuza's Death** - Mabuza died after a short illness, with his passing announced by President Ramaphosa [https://news24.com/politics/former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-dies-at-64-20250703-0888]. - He served as Deputy President from 2018 to 2023 and was a prominent figure in the African National Congress (ANC) [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/world/article/david-mabuza-a-former-south-african-deputy-20421063.php]. 2. **Details of the State Funeral** - The State Funeral is categorized as Category 2, which is reserved for distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation [https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-07-ramaphosa-declares-a-state-funeral-for-former-deputy-president-dd-mabuza]. - The funeral will take place in Barberton, Mpumalanga, where Mabuza will be laid to rest [https://insidepolitic.co.za/mabuza-to-be-buried-in-mpumalanga]. 3. **Tributes and Legacy** - President Ramaphosa described Mabuza as "dependable, reliable, and an excellent deputy," emphasizing his dedication to the people of South Africa [https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-12-dependable-reliable-and-an-excellent-deputy-ramaphosa-pays-tribute-to-david-mabuza]. - Mabuza's legacy includes his role as a unifier and his commitment to public service, which has left a lasting impact on the nation [https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/2025-07-12-cyril-ramaphosa-pays-tribute-to-david-mabuza-at-state-funeral]. ### Key Findings and Conclusions - **David Mabuza's Contributions**: Mabuza is remembered for his political dominance and commitment to public service, which has shaped South Africa's political landscape [https://iol.co.za/capetimes/news/2025-07-04-south-africa-mourns-david-mabuza-a-legacy-of-political-dominance-and-service]. - **State Funeral Significance**: The State Funeral reflects the nation's respect and recognition of Mabuza's contributions, with President Ramaphosa's eulogy expected to highlight his legacy as a unifying figure [https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-12-ramaphosa-to-deliver-eulogy-at-former-deputy-president-david-mabuzas-funeral]. - **National Mourning**: The period of mourning declared by President Ramaphosa underscores the collective grief felt across the nation following Mabuza's passing [https://www.citizen.co.za/lowvelder/news-headlines/local-news/2025/07/07/state-funeral-for-the-former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-to-take-place-in-mpumalanga]. In summary, David Mabuza's death marks the end of an era for South African politics, and his State Funeral will serve as a poignant reminder of his contributions to the nation.