SOUTH AFRICA'S FIRST AMBASSADOR TO THE US, DR FRANKLIN SONN, PASSES AWAY

Dr Franklin Sonn

By: Neo Ntsele

The esteemed Dr Franklin Sonn, an advocate for justice and education and the chancellor of the University of the Free State (UFS) from 2002 to 2009, passed away on Saturday, 15, at age 86.

He was born in Vosburg, located in the Karoo, and grew up in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof. Hester C. Klopper expressed gratitude for his dedicated service and contributions to the institution.

“We are profoundly thankful for Dr Sonn’s committed service to the University of the Free State and for his contributions marked by integrity and vision. His example remains an enduring inspiration: to engage with change fearlessly and contribute meaningfully to societal progress,” stated Prof. Hester C. Klopper.

Dr Sonn’s leadership was defined by dignity, wisdom, and principled conviction.

Throughout his tenure, he significantly contributed to UFS, reinforcing its dedication to transformation, excellence, and societal service.

A lifelong advocate for justice and education, Dr Sonn will be remembered for his remarkable versatility and impact as an educator, South Africa’s first democratic ambassador to the United States, and a business leader.

Dr Sonn’s achievements reflect a life dedicated to serving others.

He received 12 honorary doctorates, was named AHI Community Leader of the Year (1999), and was awarded the National Order of the Baobab in Silver (2008) by President Thabo Mbeki for his exceptional contributions to South Africa.

Internationally, he received the International Salute Award in Honour of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. (1996) for ‘working to keep the dream alive’.

His leadership was extensive: he served as Rector of the Peninsula Technikon, President of the AHI, Chairperson of the United States-South African Leadership Exchange, and as a member of the SABC Board.

“As the UFS community, we offer our deepest condolences to Dr Sonn’s family and all who were touched by his life and work. May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy continue to inspire and uplift future generations,” said Prof. Klopper.