On Monday, 6 February 2017, South Africa and the world over learnt of the passing of former Springbok Captain and World Cup Winner, Joost van der Westhuizen, following his long struggle with motor neuron disease.
As one of our greatest rugby legends of our time, Van der Westhuizen made 89 appearances in test matches for the national team, scoring 38 tries. He spared neither strength nor courage on the sports field. He was loved by many locally and abroad, there is no doubt he flew the South African flag high with pride and courage.
The Capital City is particularly proud of Van der Westhuizen. Born and bred in Tshwane, he reaffirmed our position as a City of Champions, home to some of the greatest sports personalities.
Van der Westhuizen was a strong resilient individual. Rather than becoming despondent at the quality of how his life had developed, he fought, hoped and never gave up on life. He maintained a strong disposition throughout and with the help of other good samaritans, he established the J9 Foundation to help those suffering from the same form of fatal illness that he was diagnosed with.
Van der Westhuizen created a platform through this foundation to allow people, companies and friends to support the quality of life programs available within this organization. He travelled around in his wheelchair and spoke about his disease and continued to touch the lives of many. For this, we are eternally gratefully and trust that the foundation will continue to spread the awareness and touch lives of those suffering from and affected by the disease.
In his courage and positive outlook despite what appeared to be a losing battle, there is a lesson for all of us; a lesson not to let your present circumstances define you, to draw inspiration and continue to bring social justice to the lives of ordinary South Africans. We are motivated to be a voice for the voiceless by speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves and make meaningful contribution to the African child.
As we mourn the passing of this exemplary figure, let us remember not to dwell on death itself but also celebrate a life well lived. A life devoted to the development of South African sport. Today as we bid farewell to Joost Van der Westhuizen, I urge South African to continue embracing each other in the spirit of unity, to honour the memories of the late Van der Westhuizen, former President Mandela, OR Tambo and many other visionaries that served our country.
To the Van der Westhuizen family, we pray that you find peace and healing.
May his soul forever rest in peace.