Sad news to share this Tuesday morning: Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, has sadly passed away at the age of 43.
A family spokesperson said that Zoleka died of cancer on Monday. The Nelson Mandela Foundation also said in a statement released on Tuesday morning, “The Nelson Mandela Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela, tragically last night. We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba and a friend of the Foundation.”
“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,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation said. “Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this most difficult time. Hamba Kahle Zoleka, we will remember you.”
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Zoleka, who was the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela’s second wife, Winnie, confirmed last year that she had cancer in her liver and lungs, and had spread to other organs.
I’m a heartbreaking Instagram post she said, “What do I tell my children? How do I tell them that this time around I may not get to live my life as a survivor? How do I tell them everything will be OK when it’s not? I’m dying… I don’t want to die.” However, in an interview with Kaya FM in April, Ms. Mandela seemed to have come to terms with her unfortunate situation: “I’m learning to be okay with my eventuality.”
Zoleka was only 10 years old when her grandfather was released from prison in 1990 after 27 years in detention. Mr Mandela died in 2013 at the age of 95.
As many know, Nelson Mandela was an extraordinary leader and a prominent figure in South African history. He was a renowned anti-apartheid activist who fought against racial segregation and discrimination. Mandela dedicated his life to advocating for human rights, equality, and democracy. He became the first black President of South Africa, serving from 1994 to 1999, and played a significant role in dismantling apartheid, which was a system of institutionalized racial segregation.
More On Her Passing
Providing more details about her passing, a statement posted to Zoleka Mandela’s Instagram account also detailed her ongoing recent struggles with cancer.
“On Monday, September 18th, Zoleka Mandela was admitted into hospital for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer to the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord,” the statement attributed to family spokesperson Zwelabo Mandela read. “Recent scans revealed significant disease progression including fibrosis in the lungs as well as several emboli.”
“Zoleka passed away on the evening of Monday, September 25th, surrounded by friends and family. Our sincerest gratitude to the medical team that took care of her,” the message said.
She will be greatly missed.
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