Tributes have been pouring in from the cricketing community and business sector following the death of Pietermaritzburg’s Willowton Group director and chief commercial officer, Shoaib Moosa, on Tuesday.

Melanie Veness, CEO of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business, described Moosa as an intelligent, gracious man who was both a thinker and a doer.

“We were truly devastated to learn of Shoaib Moosa’s death. He was a highly respected leader in our business community, actively supportive of many of the Chamber’s initiatives, and generous in his contributions to numerous community projects.

“He was very busy, but always made time if I needed him. He was thoughtful and measured when responding to challenges.

“I enjoyed engaging with him very much, and we will feel his loss deeply. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Moosa family at this very sad time.”

Msunduzi Municipality Mayor Mzi Thebolla expressed condolences to Moosa’s family and friends, saying: “May his memories and deeds bring you peace and comfort throughout your mourning.”

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The Willowton Group played a significant role in sponsoring and developing cricket in South Africa. Cricket South Africa (CSA) described Moosa as a remarkable leader whose involvement in cricket spanned many years.

CSA said in a statement:

His passion for the game was matched only by his advocacy for education. His legacy is forever linked to the creation of the Sunfoil Education Trust (SET).

Moosa was the driving force behind SET, a fund providing cricketers from disadvantaged communities with educational opportunities.

Moosa was also committed to charitable causes. Most recently, through his heart foundation, he played a vital role in providing heart surgeries for disadvantaged individuals, impacting many lives.

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MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev Musa Zondi, praised Moosa’s contributions to the provincial and global economy, as well as his dedication to cricket in KwaZulu-Natal.

His remarkable influence on cricket through his vision and dedication has left an indelible mark on the sport within our province. His commitment to fostering talent and uplifting young cricketers has created a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

Hollywoodbets Dolphins and the KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union (KZNCU) echoed these sentiments, highlighting Moosa’s pivotal role in cricket development through initiatives like the KZNDSAC Hub Development Programme.

KZN Cricket President Yunus Bobat said:

“His generosity and commitment to growing the game at grassroots level will not be forgotten. We are grateful for his contributions and will honour his legacy.”

Lions Cricket added that Moosa was not just a leader but a visionary who dedicated his life to uplifting communities and making a meaningful impact.

Witness managing editor, Riquadeu Jacobs, who had known Moosa since their school days, said that despite leading major South African businesses with global operations, Moosa remained humble and connected to his community.

“He lived by the values he was raised with and generously supported worthy causes.

“He represented a generational shift at the Willowton Group and played a key role in shaping the company’s operations during this important phase of its history.

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“The management and staff of The Witness extend our deepest condolences to the Moosa family,” said Jacobs.