Today, 26 December 2021, we lost our beloved Patron, Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

But even as we mourn the passing of our dear Patron, we celebrate a life of service well lived and the values and ideals he espoused and bequeathed to us - ubuntu, servant leadership, integrity, humility, compassion and courage. We remember a man who was diminutive in stature but larger than life in his boldness, always speaking truth to power when the occasion demanded.

As Archbishop Tutu Fellows, we recognise the weightiness of bearing his name – at once, an honour and a responsibility. We do not take it for granted. On this day, we are keenly reminded of his challenge to us: “I look to you to be the generation that drives change in Africa, and I particularly look to the Archbishop Tutu Fellows to be at the forefront of change. You are blessed with the talents of leadership but with these, come enormous responsibilities. I hope you are prepared to take up the challenge.”

The African Leadership Institute and its flagship programme, the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Programme, granted legacy status by the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, remains resolute in its commitment to nurture a new generation of African leaders who will uphold the legacy and values of Archbishop Tutu, as they lead in their various spheres.

May his dear soul rest in peace.

Statement on the passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu by the African Leadership Institute and the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellows (“Tutu Fellows”)