By Moses Magadza

WINDHOEK – The Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) is in mourning following the death on Saturday of one of its long-serving researchers, Dr Jabulile Malaza, Director of Research and SADC-PF Desk Officer for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) at the Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues across the region, who remember her as a visionary leader, dedicated professional and compassionate colleague whose work strengthened parliamentary cooperation and capacity development across Southern Africa. 

Secretary General Ms Boemo Sekgoma announced the sad news to staff and partners on Monday, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a respected member of the SADC PF family.

“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr Jabulile Malaza. May she rest in glory. May you all find comfort in the memories shared,” the Secretary General said.

Dr Malaza brought more than two decades of distinguished experience in education, governance, research and regional development to her role at the Parliament of Eswatini.

As Director of Research and SADC PF Desk Officer, she worked at the intersection of policy, research and advocacy, engaging with United Nations agencies, civil society organisations, government ministries, parliamentarians, traditional leaders and regional bodies to advance inclusive governance and sustainable development aligned with continental priorities.

Her career was marked by a deep commitment to strengthening institutions and empowering communities through knowledge, mentorship and evidence-based policymaking.

Before joining the parliamentary sector, she dedicated over 13 years to secondary education, serving as Head of the Environmental Science and Planning Department at Manzini Nazarene High School and later as Deputy Principal at St. Michael’s High School for Girls.

In these roles, she championed curriculum innovation, environmental stewardship, career guidance and the integration of information and communication technologies in teaching and learning.

Dr Malaza later expanded her leadership into teacher education and institutional development as a Lecturer and Head of Department at Ngwane Teacher Training College, and subsequently as a Training and Research Consultant at the Mananga International Institute of Development and Management Training.

Her work in these roles included developing strategic institutional plans, facilitating professional development for educators and strengthening partnerships between educational institutions, communities and development partners.

At the regional level, Dr Malaza made significant contributions to parliamentary capacity development through her tenure as Capacity Development and Curriculum Development Officer at the SADC Parliamentary Forum, where she led training and orientation programmes for parliamentarians across several SADC Member States. Her work helped strengthen parliamentary systems, procedures and the establishment of standing committees, thereby enhancing legislative effectiveness and regional cooperation.

Colleagues also recalled her contributions to higher education and research, including her role as a Research Supervisor at Monash South Africa, where she mentored postgraduate students and fostered collaboration between academia, industry and government.

Her expertise in policy analysis, strategic leadership and advocacy positioned her as a respected voice in advancing gender equality, youth empowerment, climate action, human rights and sexual and reproductive health and rights.

One colleague highlighted her leadership role and institutional contribution, stating, “Dr Jabulile Malaza was Director Research & SADC-PF Desk Officer, Parliament of Eswatini. Always cheerful, we will surely miss her.”

Tributes consistently portrayed Dr Malaza as a resilient and compassionate individual who remained steadfast even during difficult times.

“Death, where is thy sting! She fought a gallant fight. We shall always remember her gentle soul and illuminating smile. May the Lord be with her family in this difficult time and may her soul rest in peace,” one colleague wrote.

Messages of condolence poured in from parliamentary officials and researchers across multiple SADC Member States. A colleague from another Parliament described her as a veteran within the regional parliamentary community.

“She was certainly a veteran here. A wonderful sister who will be sorely missed. Deepest condolences to her family, the Parliament of Eswatini and all of you SADC PF colleagues. May her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”

Others expressed deep sadness at the loss of a trusted colleague and friend.

“Oh no! Rest in peace, my dear colleague and friend. You will be deeply missed,” another message read.

Expressions of grief also came in multiple languages, underscoring the regional and multicultural nature of the SADC PF network. One colleague wrote in French:

“Oh mon Dieu, quelle triste nouvelle!! Que son âme reste en paix!” (“Oh my God, what sad news! May her soul rest in peace!”)

Academically, Dr Malaza held a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Leadership and Management from Logos University and a Master of Science in Resources Management from the University of Eswatini. Her contributions to research, education and governance were recognised through scholarships, professional affiliations and sustained leadership across multiple institutions.

Colleagues recalled her professionalism, warmth and unwavering commitment to service. They described her as a person whose presence brought encouragement, mentorship and quiet strength to those around her.

This is a developing story, with condolence messages continuing to pour in from across the region. Colleagues have also begun sharing photographs capturing moments spent with the late Dr Malaza at regional meetings, training programmes and parliamentary engagements.