Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, has died from cancer at the age of 43. The Mandela Foundation shared the news on their Instagram page.
“The Nelson Mandela Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela, tragically last night,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation also released in a statement. “We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba and a friend of the Foundation.”
Tributes from fans flooded in on her and the Foundation’s social media page.
“Utterly tragic loss of a human being in her grandfather’s footsteps. A decent, honest human being in a dishonest, hypocritical world,” one users said on Twitter.
“You were one of the bravest people I know, and you inspired many people on your life’s journey of hope,” another person wrote on the Foundation’s Instagram page.
About Zoleka Mandela
Zoleka Mandela was born on April 9, 1983. She was the daughter of MJ Seakamela and Zindzi Mandela. Mandela also held the distinction of being the granddaughter of former South African President Nelson Mandela and his second wife, Winnie Mandela. She was only ten years old when her grandfather was released from prison.
Mandela was a passionate writer and advocate for healthcare and justice. She advocated for improved road safety after losing her 13-year-old daughter in a tragic car accident 2010. Mandela also endured the heartbreak of losing a son born prematurely. According to BBC, Mandela opened up about her struggles with depression and trauma from sexual abuse as a child.
Cancer Awareness
At the age of 32, she was diagnosed with cancer. Mandela eventually went into remission, but the disease came back. Sadly, she confirmed that her cancer had spread to other organs last year.
Over the recent years, Mandela remained transparent about her battle with cancer. She would frequently post updates on her Instagram page.
“I’m learning to be okay with my eventuality,” she said in an interview with Kaya FM earlier this year.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation revealed that the writer worked tirelessly to raise awareness about cancer prevention and was committed to breaking down any stigma surrounding the disease.