Wolsey Barnard, who led the programme that brought power to four million homes, has died
The physicist ran South Africa's national electrification programme for 13 years and was the founding head of its radioactive waste agency.
PANM — Dr Wolsey Barnard, who led South Africa's national electrification programme for 13 years, has died, the Department of Electricity and Energy announced.
During his years at the head of the programme, electricity reached about four million households. The department said it transformed daily life: children could study after dark, livelihoods grew and household work became lighter.
A life in energy
- Barnard spent more than three decades in South Africa's energy sector, including as acting director-general and deputy director-general of the former Department of Energy.
- He was the founding chief executive of the National Radioactive Waste Disposal Institute, and at his death was deputy chairperson of its board.
- A physicist and former university lecturer, he championed science and engineering education, rural development and the participation of women, young people and people with disabilities.
Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa extended the department's condolences to the Barnard family. "We recognise that, beyond his public service and professional achievements, Dr Barnard held a place in his family that no tribute can fully express," the department said.
Source: Department of Electricity and Energy, 15 October 2026.
