Tributes poured in on social media following the death of Environmental Affairs Edma Molewa on Saturday.
Molewa died in a Pretoria hospital "after a period of illness". She was 61 years old.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said: "This is a devastating loss to our nation and to the global community who owe a great debt of gratitude to the late Minister Molewa for her championship nationally and globally for the environmental integrity of a sustainable planet Earth that can be shared and enjoyed by all nations and all people, rich and poor."
Tributes from disparate corners poured in for Molewa on social media on Saturday.
Marcus Cornaro, European Union ambassador to South Africa, tweeted: "Shocked by passing away of #EdnaMolewa - a force for progress in SA, and strong partner of EU on global issues like CITES and Climate Change. Picture shows us 3 weeks ago on climate outreach. Great loss for SA + world."
Public Service and Administration Minister Ayanda Dlodlo tweeted: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Minister Edna Molewa. A tireless political activist and servant of the people. Robala ka Kgotso Mme."
Here are some of the tributes posted for Molewa.