A literary giant, Diana Ferrus, has died. She has also been referred to by many as a cultural icon. Tributes are flowing in following the passing of Ferrus. The University of the Western Cape says Ferrus was more than a poet; she was a moral compass, a voice for the silenced, and a healer who transformed pain into purpose through language.

Balfour says , “As an alumna and staff member of the University of the Western Cape, Diana nurtured students, mentored emerging writers, and championed voices from marginalised communities.”

A literary giant, Diana Ferrus, has died

The University’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert John Balfour, announced the news with profound sadness, saying Ferrus was a cherished member of the University of the Western Cape community. He says Diana was more than a poet. Balfour says her work carried the power to restore dignity, to confront injustice, and to inspire healing across generations.

“Writing in both English and Afrikaans, she bridged cultures and affirmed the depth and beauty of our multilingual heritage, ” Balfour added.

Ferrus’s poem I’ve Come to Take You Home

According to Balfour, Ferrus’s poem I’ve Come to Take You Home, written for Sarah Baartman, stands as a historic testament to the transformative force of art. He says that through her words, Diana helped shift global consciousness and played a meaningful role in the return of Baartman’s remains to South Africa. This showed the world that poetry is not only expression, but action. It’s a catalyst for justice, memory, and reconciliation.

“Her commitment to grassroots writers, women poets, and community storytelling reflected her lifelong belief in the power of narrative to heal and empower,” he said.

May her soul rest in peace, and may her words continue to light our path.

IN HER POETIC STYLE, WE SAY: “REST IN PEACE, DIANA. YOUR WORDS STILL WALK AMONG US.

Your voice still guides us. Your spirit still sings.”