The late Tito Mboweni, South Africa’s former Minister of Finance, was fondly remembered during his funeral service on Saturday, 19 October, for both his political career and his quirky culinary creations. His son, Sello Mboweni, took a light-hearted moment during his eulogy to poke fun at his father’s well-known love for pilchards and his self-proclaimed cooking skills.
Mboweni, who was laid to rest in his hometown of Tzaneen, was not only known for his leadership in South Africa’s financial sector but also for his amusing posts on social media, where he frequently shared pictures of his home-cooked meals. His cooking – which often featured Lucky Star pilchards – gained significant attention online, leading to him being dubbed the “Twitter Chef.”
During his touching tribute, Sello Mboweni, an artist and model, shared some of his fondest memories of his father. Accompanied by his brothers Tumelo and Pule, Sello offered a humorous yet heartfelt reflection on Tito’s unique personality.
“He had an incredible way of seeing potential in others, even when they did not see it in themselves. He even believed in himself to be a five-star chef, as we all know him to be,” Sello joked, acknowledging his father’s enduring self-confidence in the kitchen.
Sello also spoke fondly of Tito’s favorite dish, Lucky Star pilchards, a staple in many of the meals his father prepared. He continued the playful tone, saying, “I find myself thinking of the night sky, something dad always loved, a sky full of stars. Now, when I look up, I know there is one shining a little brighter and closer to me, my own Lucky Star.”
The former finance minister’s passion for pilchards and his unconventional culinary combinations became a talking point on social media, with many users affectionately teasing him about his kitchen experiments. Mboweni, however, embraced the humor, often sharing his cooking with pride despite the jokes and critiques that followed.
Despite the lighthearted nature of Sello’s tribute, it was clear that his father’s impact on his family and those around him extended far beyond his cooking. He was remembered as a visionary who encouraged those around him to reach their full potential, and who never shied away from being himself, whether in politics or in his personal life.
Tito Mboweni’s passing marked the end of a remarkable era in South African politics. As the country mourned his loss, Sello’s tribute reminded everyone that Mboweni’s influence was felt not only in his public service but also in the personal, intimate moments he shared with his loved ones.
In addition to his long political career, Tito Mboweni’s fun-loving nature and willingness to laugh at himself will remain a lasting part of his legacy. His simple love for pilchards and his determination to turn them into “five-star” meals has become a symbolic reminder of his larger-than-life personality.
Sello’s tribute provided a touching balance between humor and heartfelt reflection, offering a glimpse into the unique bond he shared with his father, who will be remembered for his kindness, confidence, and memorable culinary adventures.