Zoleka Mandela, a courageous anti-apartheid struggle hero and granddaughter of the iconic Nelson Mandela, has tragically lost her battle with cancer at the age of 43. Her family announced her passing on Tuesday, marking the end of a long and brave fight against the disease.
Zoleka Mandela was widely recognised for her dedication to sharing her cancer journey, offering hope and strength to others facing similar battles. On Monday, she was admitted to the hospital as part of her ongoing treatment, a family spokesperson confirmed.
Surrounded by friends and family, Zoleka Mandela peacefully passed away, leaving a legacy of resilience and courage. Her parents are Zindzi Mandela, the youngest daughter of Nelson Mandela, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
In her battle against cancer, recent scans had shown significant progress in her condition. The disease had affected various parts of her body, including her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation expressed its condolences and deep sorrow on social media, writing, “We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba.” The use of “Madiba” is a term of affection referring to the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
Zoleka Mandela’s impactful work extended beyond her fight against cancer. She played a crucial role in raising awareness about cancer prevention and worked tirelessly to break down the stigma surrounding the disease. Her commitment to these causes has left an indelible mark on the global community.
