President Ramaphosa and City of Cape Town mourn passing of Dr Franklin Sonn

President Cyril Ramaphosa and the City of Cape Town have paid tribute to educator, diplomat and business leader Dr Franklin Sonn, who has died at the age of 86. Dr Sonn was widely recognised for his contribution to education, the democratic transition and economic development in South Africa.

Ramaphosa conveyed condolences to his wife Joan, his children Crispin and Heather, and the extended Sonn family. The President said Dr Sonn dedicated his life to service in education, diplomacy and business and played an important role in the early years of democratic South Africa. The President said “I join the Sonns and Franklin’s diverse friends and associates in mourning the loss of a leader whose life exemplified the essence of the Order of the Baobab.”

Dr Sonn was the country’s first ambassador to the United States after the establishment of democracy. Before entering diplomacy he held several leadership roles in education. He started his career as a teacher and later served as principal of Spes Bona High School in Athlone. He became President of the Cape Teachers Professional Association where he led teachers during a difficult period in the struggle against apartheid. He was later appointed Rector of the former Peninsula Technikon in Cape Town, a role he held until his diplomatic appointment.

Ramaphosa said Dr Sonn inspired young people through his work in the classroom and provided leadership to educators working under apartheid. The President said “We remember him as an advocate and activist for the accelerated transformation of our country after the end of apartheid and the upliftment of historically marginalised communities.”

Dr Sonn was also involved in business and broad based economic empowerment initiatives. He served on boards of major companies and helped establish black owned enterprises to support economic participation. Ramaphosa said “Franklin Sonn played a great part in our history that lives on in our present and we owe him our commitment to keep building the society he envisioned.”

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill Lewis also extended condolences on behalf of the city. The Mayor said Dr Sonn was an influential figure whose achievements and leadership touched many communities. The Mayor said “The City of Cape Town joins the nation in mourning the loss of Dr Franklin Sonn an extraordinary Capetonian distinguished educator diplomat and business leader.” He said the city owes Dr Sonn a debt of gratitude for his work in nation building and his commitment to an inclusive society.

The Mayor said Dr Sonn’s leadership in education shaped the lives of many students and teachers. His career included his time as Rector of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology from 1978 until 1994. Dr Sonn also played a role in the 1994 democratic transition and continued to contribute to public life after his diplomatic posting.

Dr Sonn received numerous honours including the National Order of the Baobab and Cape Town Civic Honours. He was awarded more than a dozen honorary doctorates in recognition of his contribution to education and public service.