Ezekiel Phalana
Johannesburg — The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) proudly conferred honorary Doctor of Commerce degrees on two esteemed South African leaders — Mavuso Walter Msimang and Kaizer Motaung — at its graduation ceremonies held on Tuesday, 15 July 2025.
These honorary degrees recognise their exceptional contributions to South African society through activism, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community upliftment.
Dr Mavuso Walter Msimang was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Commerce at the morning ceremony in recognition of his unwavering dedication to social justice and good governance. A veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle and respected public servant, Dr Msimang has spent his life championing ethical leadership, environmental stewardship, and the fight against corruption and maladministration.
“Dr Msimang’s commitment to integrity and nation-building reflects the very values that Wits holds dear,” said Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi. “He is an inspiration to generations of South Africans who strive to advance democracy and accountability.”
Dr Kaizer Motaung, founder and chairperson of the iconic Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, received his Honorary Doctor of Commerce in the afternoon ceremony. Widely regarded as a pioneer of South African sport, Dr Motaung was honoured for his immense impact on football, entrepreneurship, and his dedication to empowering disadvantaged youth through sport and philanthropy.
In his acceptance address, Dr Motaung reflected on his remarkable journey: “There are no shortcuts to success. Building Kaizer Chiefs from humble beginnings to what it is today required vision, sacrifice, and perseverance. I hope our story continues to inspire young people to dream big and uplift their communities.”
Professor Vilakazi added, “Today we recognise two giants who have transformed our society in different but equally profound ways. Wits is proud to celebrate their legacy and welcome them into our academic community.”
The honorary degrees were conferred as part of Wits’ July graduation cluster, during which over 2,000 students graduated across various faculties.
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