Bulelwa Hoala

The Nelson Mandela Foundation is mourning the loss of South African billionaire businessman, Douw Steyn, who died yesterday Monday, 4 February at the age of 72.
“It is with great sadness that the Nelson Mandela Foundation has learned of the passing of Douw Steyn. Our thoughts are with Carolyn, his family and his friends at this difficult time.
“Douw was a larger than life character, someone Madiba regarded as a friend. He supported Madiba in numerous ways over many years,” the foundation said on their website.
The foundation went on to say that Mandela lived in Douw’s home when he was going through his divorce from Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
“During 1992 Madiba lived in Douw’s home as he navigated his way through a very painful separation from Mum Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. And over the next two decades Madiba frequently turned to Douw when he needed spaces for retreat or support for his projects. The Foundation will always honour the memory of their relationship. Go well Douw.”
Douw Steyn was someone Nelson Mandela regarded as a friend. He supported Madiba for many years.
— NelsonMandela (@NelsonMandela) February 4, 2025
It is with great sadness that the #NelsonMandelaFoundation has learned of his passing. https://t.co/04c9rP7xWG
📸 Steyn City pic.twitter.com/bu70wkH5z1
Steyn was the founder of BGL Group, a UK-based insurance and financial services company, and the parent of Comparethemarket.com.
He was also known for developing his brainchild Steyn City, the residential and lifestyle estate in the north of Johannesburg.
He leaves behind his wife, Carolyn, and his three children.
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