Nelson Mandela’s Granddaughter Zoleka Dead at 43
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Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of anti-apartheid activists and politicians Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, passed away on Monday, Sept. 25, at the age of 43.
Family spokesperson, Zwelabo Mandela, shared the news on social media with the following statement: "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."
"Recent scans revealed significant disease progression including fibrosis in the lungs as well as several emboli," the statement continued. "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.”
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In a statement from the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Zoleka was described as "a tireless activist for healthcare and justice.”
"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. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this most difficult time. Hamba kahle Zoleka, we will remember you," the statement concluded.
Zoleka was first diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 32. It went into remission before returning last year, and Zoleka was very honest about her journey through treatment on her Instagram.
Along with spreading awareness about cancer and living with a terminal condition, Zoleka also spoke out about dealing with depression and advocated for better road safety after her daughter, Zenani, passed away in a car accident in 2010 at the age of 13.
Zoleka was open about her history of being sexually abused as a child and dealing with addiction as well, writing about her personal story in her memoir, When Hope Whispers.
The late activist was only 10 years old when Mandela was released from prison in 1990 after spending 27 years behind bars. The well-known political figure passed away in 2013, with his second wife Winnie, Zoleka's grandmother, passing in 2018.
Zoleka is survived by her four children.
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