Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu a.k.a Desmond Mpilo Tutu a.k.a The Arch - one of South Africa's most beloved elders and Nobel Prize laureates - has announced his imminent retirement from public life.
Tutu spent many years working tirelessly against apartheid and other social injustices in South Africa and is perhaps best known for his role as head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate human rights abuses committed during the apartheid era.
In subsequent years he has been actively involved with numerous NGOs and has a strong interest in HIV and Aids education.
Tutu is also known for his enthusiasm, his high energy, his sense of humour, his fearlessness in speaking out his truth in the face of opposition. But perhaps he is best loved for his infectious, 'naughty' laugh which never fails to bring a smile to all who hear it.
In recent times we witnessed Tutu on the stands at Soccer City on the night of the pre-World Cup bash where he was clearly having an absolute 'jol' as we say here - dancing and celebrating like a man many years his junior.
In fact, the Bishop's retirement will come into effect on the occasion of his 79th birthday in October this year. Among other leisurely pass timed, he intends to spend his time watching cricket and sipping rooibos tea with his wife, as well as taking time for reflection and prayer.
While many are sad to hear that The Arch will be far less in the public eye, we are pretty sure that he will still make news - for all the right reasons - on occasion.
But for the foreseeable future, if he intends swinging on the chandeliers at family events, we probably won't be witnesses to that.
We wish him every happiness and a long, healthy, happy, well earned retirement.
