South Africa has just been struck with a tragedy as Zoleka Mandela, granddaughter of the late President Nelson Mandela, passed away on Monday, September 25. The 43-year-old had been battling cancer for multiple years before her passing.
The news was announced by the Nelson Mandela Foundation in a press release which expressed sorrow at the loss of their “beloved grandchild” and friend.
Zoleka Mandela, activist and granddaughter of South Africa's first democratically elected president Nelson Mandela, has died of cancer at the age of 43.
She was first diagnosed with breast cancer a decade ago.https://t.co/R8DdAspPiV pic.twitter.com/X86E7pPlSC
— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) September 26, 2023
In 2008, 32-year-old Zoleka was first diagnosed with breast cancer according to BBC News. After some time in remission it returned and spread to other organs including her liver and lungs. Throughout her battle she remained an advocate for healthcare justice and took strides towards raising awareness about cancer prevention.
The foundation recognized her work in their statement saying that “her unwavering commitment to breaking down the stigma surrounding the disease will continue to inspire us all.”
Besides advocating for healthcare justice throughout her life, Zoleka also spoke on childhood sexual abuse experiences as well as road safety following the 2010 car accident which resulted in one of her daughter’s death according to BBC News.
She wrote an autobiography detailing these events called When Hope Whispers which has since become quite popular amongst readers seeking inspiration for overcoming obstacles similar to those she faced during her lifetime.
Nelson Mandela is remembered around world today not only as South Africa’s first democratically elected president but also as an anti-apartheid activist who spent 27 years in prison prior his ascent into power in 1994 until his passing at 95 years old in 2013 according to BBC News.
His legacy lives on through people like his granddaughter Zoleka who fought tirelessly against injustice up until the very end of her life even when facing personal hardship such as losing children due health complications or tragic accidents.
