Lucky Star promise a canned fish tribute to Tito Mboweni

Lucky Star Pilchards have pledged to create an appropriate tribute to Tito Mboweni, their unofficial brand ambassador.

The former Minister of Finance and Reserve Bank Governor was known for his quirky cuisine, which included plenty of pilchards.

According to a family statement, the 65-year-old died on Saturday after a short illness. He will be granted a state funeral on Saturday, 19 October.

TITO MBOWENI TRIBUTE IN PIPELINE FOR LUCKY STAR

Following his death,  Lucky Star Pilchards – which falls under Tiger Brands – paid tribute to Tito Mboweni, who was branded their unofficial ambassador.

The tinned fish company said in a statement, “We lost a true South African Icon.”

Their post was met with calls from the public to do something in memory of the late minister. 

It seems the brand has obliged. They followed up with a statement that they had something in the pipeline.

It read: “Many South Africans will also fondly remember him for his imaginative and sometimes unconventional cooking, which became a source of delight and conversation around the country.

“Tito’s authenticity and enthusiasm made him a beloved and unintentional celebrity chef. Despite never having an official role with Lucky Star, he embraced our brand with a sense of creativity and warmth that resonated deeply with people from all walks of life”.

It added:” At the right time, and with his family’s permission, we will honour his memory in a way that reflects his unique contributions, with more details to follow.”

STATE FUNERAL IN THE WORKS

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that Tito Mboweni will be granted a state funeral. It will take place at the Nkowankowa Stadium in Tzaneen, Limpopo, on Saturday, 19 October.

“President Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from tomorrow morning, Wednesday, 16 October 2024, until the evening of the funeral on 19 October 2024,” spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said.