Russell Nxumalo passes away

By Delisa Magagula

The nation is mourning the death of Russell Vusumuzi Nxumalo, Commissioner of Cooperative Development under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade.

The family of Nxumalo and the Ministry have confirmed his passing. The news has shocked the country, with many describing him as a remarkable public servant who dedicated his life to serving the nation.

Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, confirmed the sad news and said the ministry was deeply saddened by Nxumalo’s death.

He said an official statement would be released soon. The family could not comment at the time but has asked for privacy while they mourn.
Nxumalo’s career in the civil service spanned several important roles.

In 2022, he was appointed as National Civil Registrar, where he was responsible for managing key national records and registration processes.

He later joined the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade as Commissioner of Cooperative Development, a role that made him a familiar face across Eswatini’s cooperative movement.

As Commissioner, Nxumalo played a leading role in strengthening the country’s cooperative sector. In August 2025, he announced progress toward establishing Eswatini’s first cooperative bank, a three-year project aimed at improving access to finance for cooperative members.

He reported that assets in the cooperative sector had grown to more than E3.5 billion and said the initiative would help build financial inclusion across the country.

In September 2025, he introduced a memorandum of understanding aimed at improving transparency within the cooperative sector.

The agreement focused on digitalising cooperative operations, allowing real-time tracking of savings and better financial reporting for members.

The project was widely praised for bringing modern systems into the cooperative movement. Nxumalo also represented Eswatini at the national Cooperative Day celebrations in 2024, where he encouraged societies to strengthen their management structures and embrace accountability.

His colleagues have described him as a visionary and a hardworking official who cared deeply about cooperative members and rural development.

Following news of his death, tributes poured in from government officials, business leaders and members of the cooperative movement.

Many described him as dedicated, approachable and passionate about improving people’s lives through sustainable economic initiatives.

His sudden passing has left a major gap in the ministry and the cooperative sector. At this stage, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade has only confirmed his death and said more details will be shared in due course.