On the 10 of January 2025, the Executive Director of ACCORD, Dr Gounden, made a speech at Prof. Bengu’s Special Official Funeral Category 2. The speech honoured the life of Prof. Bengu, and reads as follows.
“Thank you Programme Directors, Mama Bengu and the Bengu family, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Premier Thansanqa Ntuli, distinguished guests.
Today, as we gather to honor the remarkable life of Professor Sibusiso Bengu, we are reminded of the words spoken yesterday by Ambassador Andrew Young at the funeral of President Jimmy Carter. Ambassador Young referred to President Carter as a “Miracle from God,” a beacon of hope and inspiration who touched the lives of many. And so it is with Professor Bengu. He was South Africa’s, Africa’s, and indeed the world’s Miracle from God.
Professor Bengu’s life was a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of peace and justice in the most challenging circumstances.
In 1991, I approached then Head of International Relations of the ANC, Thabo Mbeki and other leaders whom i see here today like Minister Musa Zondi of the IFP, about the idea of establishing an institute to resolve political disputes. Thabo Mbeki suggested that I approach the Principals of the Historically Black Universities to be founding Trustees. And so Professor Sibusiso Bengu, and two others sitting here today, Professor Wiseman Nkhulu and Professor Jairam Reddy, as well as Professor Chabane Manganyi and the late Professor Jakes Gerwel became founding Trustees of ACCORD. Mrs Graca Machel who joined the Board in 1995, and currently, Chairs the Board sends her apologies as she is busy with the crisis in Mozambique.
As a founding Trustee of ACCORD, which as most people know is today the largest conflict management institute in Africa and among the top five globally, he dedicated himself to a cause that transcends borders, uniting people across cultures, ideologies, and nations.
To describe Professor Bengu merely as an academic, a mediator, or a peacemaker would be to undersell his essence. He was a statesman of the human spirit, a man who saw not just the brokenness in the world but the infinite potential for healing. He taught us that dialogue, even in the face of division, is not just an option but an imperative.
When ACCORD was just an idea, Professor Bengu saw its boundless potential. He believed that Africa, often scarred by conflict, could be a continent of resolution, reconciliation, and restoration. He brought to the organization not only his profound intellect but also his indomitable spirit. His vision shaped ACCORD into a beacon of hope for those seeking peaceful solutions to complex problems.
But Professor Bengu’s contributions were not confined to boardrooms and conference tables. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people at the most human level. He listened deeply, understood profoundly, and acted decisively. Whether he was engaging with world leaders or local communities, he embodied humility and respect, always striving to bridge divides and build understanding.
To many, he was a mentor. To others, a trusted friend. To all, he was a source of wisdom and light. His impact was not limited to what he did but was magnified by who he was—a man of integrity, compassion, and unwavering faith in humanity.
Professor Bengu believed in Africa’s promise. He believed that we, as a continent, hold the solutions to our challenges, that our strength lies in our unity, and that our future is bright if we choose peace over conflict and dialogue over division.
As we celebrate his life today, let us remember that his legacy is not merely a memory but a call to action. The work of peace is ongoing, and the responsibility to carry forward his vision now rests with each of us. Let us continue to strive for the ideals he championed—a world where justice prevails, where understanding triumphs over prejudice, and where every conflict is met with the possibility of resolution.
To his family, we extend our deepest condolences. Your loss is shared by countless people whose lives he touched. We thank you for sharing him with us, for allowing him to be a father, brother, mentor, and friend to so many. Professor Bengu’s life was a miracle, and we are all the better for having witnessed it. As we bid him farewell, let us commit ourselves to ensuring that his legacy of peace, hope, and unity endures.
Rest in peace, Professor Sibusiso Bengu. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you. You were truly a Miracle from God.
I THANK YOU.”