The Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (Unisa), Prof Puleng LenkaBula, has leant with sadness of the passing of former Special Representative of the African Union in Somalia, Ambassador Nicolas Bwakira of Burundi.
Unisa remembers the former ambassador with fond memories; as upon his retirement from the UN, the University appointed him Director of International Relations and Partnerships.
Unisa acknowledges that the former ambassador’s long-standing association with the University has left an undeniable mark on the institution. Over and above being a diplomat, he was an international civil servant and academic. His contribution to the university and the continent has been exemplary.
We hold the strong view that his work and unwavering commitment to the protection of refugees and to peace on the continent is to be celebrated. His resolve to the improvement of the lives of people on the continent cannot be ignored.
On behalf of the Unisa community, I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the people of Burundi. He left a legacy which we hope other leaders on the continent will emulate.
Together with the rest of the world, Unisa will continue to hold his family and friends in our thoughts at this time of bereavement.
May you as a family, be comforted at this time.
Prof Puleng LenkaBula
Principal & Vice-Chancellor
University of South Africa
Publish date: 2021-03-12 00:00:00.0