CAPETOWN, SOUTH AFRICA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of South Africa’s first post-apartheid president, Nelson Mandela, has sadly passed away at the age of 43, according to her family.
A message posted on her Instagram page revealed that Ms. Mandela had been admitted to the hospital on September 18 for treatment of metastatic cancer, affecting her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord.
The statement noted significant disease progression, including lung fibrosis and multiple emboli, and conveyed her passing on the evening of September 25, surrounded by loved ones. Gratitude was extended to the medical team that cared for her.
Ms. Mandela courageously documented her battle with cancer in recent years and openly discussed her experiences of childhood sexual abuse and drug addiction.
Diagnosed with cancer at 32, she entered remission before the illness’s return. She was also an advocate for road safety, spurred by the tragic loss of her 13-year-old daughter in a car accident in 2010.
Zoleka Mandela was the daughter of diplomat Zindzi Mandela-Hlongwane, herself the child of Nelson and Winnie Mandela.
In her final days, she shared a message indicating her treatment was ongoing and expressed her fears. Her legacy lives on through her four children.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation paid tribute to her, acknowledging her as a cherished grandchild of Winnie and Madiba. They recalled her impactful memoir, “When Hope Whispers,” which she generously shared with their staff and facilitated leadership sessions around. Her dedication to healthcare and justice advocacy, particularly in raising awareness about cancer prevention and dismantling the disease’s stigma, continues to inspire.
The foundation offered their condolences to her family and friends, remembering her as a tireless activist who made a lasting impact.
