Johannesburg – South African anti-apartheid struggle hero Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, has died of cancer aged 43, her family said on Tuesday.
Known for having detailed her long battle against the disease, the author was admitted into hospital on Monday as part of her ongoing treatment, a family spokesman said.
“Zoleka passed away… surrounded by friends and family,” said Zwelabo Mandela.
She was the child of Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi Mandela, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
The family said recent scans revealed “significant” progress in the cancer that affected her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.
“We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation wrote on social media, using the name by which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was fondly known.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of #ZolekaMandela, tragically last night.
We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba and a friend of the foundation.
When her inspiring memoir When… pic.twitter.com/irmXI1qZwQ
— NelsonMandela (@NelsonMandela) September 26, 2023
“Her work in raising awareness about cancer prevention and her unwavering commitment to breaking down the stigma surrounding the disease will continue to inspire us all.”
Take a look at more condolence messages on social media:
The EFF sends its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela. pic.twitter.com/3TsD1nZ4hv
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) September 26, 2023
Zoleka Mandela was a fighter. Our prayers and thoughts are with her family. Hamba Kahle. pic.twitter.com/7gPpIwuE6N
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) September 26, 2023
3 generations gone.
Reunited again, Rest in peace Zoleka Mandela 🕊️🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/MLsg61IMjq
— The Instigator (@Am_Blujay) September 26, 2023
“Mothers don’t fear death. Their greatest fear is leaving their children in this world, knowing no one will love them like they do”
Rest in Peace Zoleka Mandela. You fought till the end. Strength to your babies and family 🕊️🕊️🖤 pic.twitter.com/PbES4WbAvw
— MaMhlanga Nompumelelo (@Mpumiln) September 26, 2023
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Source: AFP
Picture: Twitter/@ZolekaMandela
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