The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) joins the nation in mourning the passing of veteran actor, cultural activist and trade union pioneer, Mabutho “Kid” Sithole.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire South African artistic community during this difficult time.
For decades, Kid Sithole graced our stages, television screens and cinemas with memorable performances that enriched South Africa’s cultural heritage. Through productions such as Sarafina!, Generations, Zone 14, eHostela and Hotel Rwanda, he captivated audiences at home and abroad, earning respect as one of South Africa’s finest character actors.
Beyond his remarkable artistic achievements, Kid Sithole understood that artists are workers who deserve dignity, fair remuneration, decent working conditions and the protection of collective organisation. As President of the Performing Arts Workers’ Equity (PAWE), he played a leading role in uniting creative workers. In 2005, he led PAWE into a historic merger with the Musicians Union of South Africa (MUSA) to form the Creative Workers’ Union of South Africa (CWUSA), becoming the founding President of the new union. Through this pioneering work, he was at the forefront of the struggle to give artists, performers and other creative workers a strong collective voice and to advance their rights, livelihoods and social protection.
His commitment to organising workers in the creative industry reflected the timeless principle that an injury to one is an injury to all. He dedicated his life not only to entertaining the nation but also to advancing the cause of justice and dignity for those whose talents too often went unrecognised and unrewarded.
On a personal note, SAFTU General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi recalls that Kid Sithole served as the Master of Ceremonies at his wedding in 2007. It was a role he performed with the same brilliance that defined his life. He was a man of many talents—effortlessly humorous, keeping everyone laughing, yet equally capable of becoming deeply serious and reflective when the occasion demanded it. He was articulate, passionate and persuasive, with a rare ability to touch hearts through both his humour and the strength of his convictions. Above all, he was an extraordinarily warm, humble and likeable human being whose presence enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
SAFTU salutes Comrade Kid Sithole for his immense contribution to South African arts and culture and for his pioneering role in building trade union organisation among creative workers. His life reminds us that the struggle for workers’ rights extends beyond factories, mines and offices to every workplace, including the stages, studios and film sets where artists earn their living.
South Africa has lost not only a gifted actor and cultural icon, but also a principled trade unionist, a unifier, a patriot and a champion of workers in the creative sector. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and trade unionists alike.
We convey our sincere condolences to his beloved family, fellow artists, members of CWUSA, the broader labour movement and all those whose lives he touched.
Hamba kahle, Comrade Kid Sithole. May your soul rest in eternal peace.
Issued on behalf of the SAFTU General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi.
For media inquiries contact:
National Spokesperson
Newton Masuku
newtonm@saftu.org.za
0661682157
Media Officer
Asive Dyani
0719019564
