Pretoria – Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says, on behalf of the department and its entities, she mourns the passing of Khulu Phasiwe, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS).
Phasiwe passed away on Sunday, 4 October 2026.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues,” Minister Creecy said on Wednesday, 7 October 2026.
Phasiwe, a former Business Report journalist, served as Eskom spokesperson during the height of load-shedding and took on similar roles at FNB, the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory, the Public Protector and ATNS.
Minister Creecy further said that, though Phasiwe’s time in the transport sector was short-lived, his impact was immense.
She said Phasiwe brought credibility, dignity and leadership to ATNS and to the broader transport family.
“His contribution to the public sector and to the media fraternity was immense,” stated Minister Creecy.
“He upheld ethical communication when it mattered most.
“South Africa has lost a gifted professional. The transport sector has lost a valued colleague.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
Some reports said Phasiwe succumbed to an illness he had been battling for some time.
