The African National Congress (ANC) and Democratic Alliance (DA) have paid tribute and joined South Africans in mourning the death of businessman Douw Steyn.
The 72-year-old passed away on Tuesday, 4 February, after a short illness.
FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DOUW STEYN
Steyn was best-known for his Auto & General insurance company in South Africa, the BGL Group in the UK – the parent company of the well-known price comparison website Compare the Market, and for the creation of Steyn City, a residential and lifestyle estate in northern Johannesburg.
The Sunday Times Rich List for 2024 claimed that Steyn has a net worth of £3 billion (R69.94 billion).
According to the list, Steyn, who was born in Brits, North West, was the 58th wealthiest person in the UK.
He leaves behind sons, TJ and Louis, daughter Tanya, and widow Carolyn Steyn, a music radio presenter and founder of the nonprofit organisation 67 Blankets for Mandela.
POLITICAL PARTIES PAY TRIBUTE
DA leader John Steenhuisen said Douw was a businessman whose remarkable achievements and legacy will leave a lasting impact on South Africa and the world.
Steenhuisen said Steyn’s entrepreneurial spirit, marked by his successful ventures such as the BGL Group and Steyn City, was extraordinary.
“He built a business empire across multiple countries and showed a great commitment to South Africa, both in business and his personal life. His generous contributions to the nation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, are a testament to his desire to give back and to make a positive difference.
“Beyond his business accomplishments, Douw Steyn’s dedication to his family and country will be remembered with great respect. May his soul rest in peace,” Steenhuisen said.
Likewise, the ANC extended its condolences to Steyn’s family, friends, business associates, and colleagues.
The party described Steyn as a respected businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the country’s economy and various social initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s development.
“His legacy in business, particularly in the insurance and property sectors, as well as his philanthropic work, will be remembered as part of his commitment to building a better South Africa,” ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said.
HOW WILL YOU REMEMBER DOUW STEYN?
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