Author and global activist Zoleka Mandela – granddaughter of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela Mandela, prominent figures in the struggle against apartheid – has sadly passed away at the age of 43.
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Zoleka succumbed to her prolonged battle with cancer on Monday evening, a day before what would have been her grandmother Winnie’s 87th birthday.
According to a statement released by the family, Zoleka had been admitted to the hospital on Monday for ongoing cancer treatment, which had affected her hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain, and spinal cord.
Recent scans had revealed significant disease progression, including lung fibrosis and several blood clots.
Zoleka’s courageous fight against cancer was marked by her announcement of her third bout of cancer in August 2022, when she revealed she had bone metastasis.
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The statement reads:
“On monday, September 18th, Zoleka Mandela was admitted into hospital for ongoing 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.
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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Zoleka’s legacy as a global activist, author, icon, friend and family member will be remembered fondly.
Our condolences to Zoleka’s friends and family during this difficult time.
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Feature Image: Instagram / @zolekamandela
