Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter dies of cancer aged 43
Zoleka Mandela, the mother of Zenani Mandela, speaks during the launch of the Zenani Mandela Scholarship for road safety, which will contribute to the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020 campaign, in central London, on April 12, 2011. – South African anti-apartheid struggle hero Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, died of cancer aged 43, her family said on Tuesday. Known for having detailed her long battle against the disease, the author was admitted into hospital on Monday as part of her ongoing treatment, a family spokesman said. (Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP)
South African anti-apartheid struggle hero Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, has died of cancer aged 43, her family said on Tuesday.
Known for having detailed her long battle against the disease, the author was admitted into hospital on Monday as part of her ongoing treatment, a family spokesman said.
“Zoleka passed away… surrounded by friends and family,” said Zwelabo Mandela.
She was the child of Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi Mandela, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
The family said recent scans revealed “significant” progress in the cancer that affected her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.
“We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation wrote on social media, using the name by which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was fondly known.
“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.”
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