GOOD Statement by Patricia de Lille ,
GOOD Leader & Minister of Tourism
04 June 2025
The GOOD Party extends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all music lovers mourning the passing of Rashid Lombard, a cultural icon whose contributions helped shape the soul of our nation.
A recipient of the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, Lombard left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural landscape. As the visionary behind the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), he brought global attention to Cape Town while ensuring that the event remained rooted in principles of inclusivity, access, and development.
During my time as the Mayor of Cape Town, I had the privilege of working alongside Rashid. The Jazz Festival stood out not just as a world-class musical showcase but as an all-inclusive event that actively worked to build a more inclusive city, one that welcomed all, regardless of colour or creed.
The CTIJF delivered a major economic boost to the City and the Western Cape, driving tourism revenue and supporting a broad spectrum of industries. Most importantly, it created jobs and inspired hope, particularly among our youth.
Beyond the stage, Rashid Lombard was a celebrated photojournalist whose powerful imagery captured the rise of South Africa’s democratic movement and celebrated the vibrant pulse of South African jazz.
His extraordinary archive, more than 500,000 film negatives, video and audio recordings, is now preserved at the University of the Western Cape, a treasure trove of memory and meaning.
Rashid Lombard’s legacy is one of passion, purpose, and people. We honour his life, his art, and his enduring impact.
May he rest in peace.
Media Enquiries:media@forgood.org.za