Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of the renowned South African anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela, has sadly succumbed to cancer at the age of 43.
The family announced it on Tuesday.
Known for her candid accounts of her prolonged struggle with the illness, Zoleka had been undergoing ongoing treatment and was admitted to the hospital on Monday.
She, however, died early this morning surrounded by friends and family, according to Zwelabo Mandela, her family representative.
Zoleka was the offspring of Zindzi Mandela, Mandela’s youngest daughter, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation paid tribute to her on social media, referring to her as a cherished grandchild of Winnie and Madiba, the affectionate nickname for the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
They also highlighted her impactful work in raising cancer awareness and her dedicated efforts to dismantle the disease’s stigma, emphasising that her legacy would continue to inspire everyone.
AFP
