Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, has died aged 43 from cancer.
Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Zoleka Mandela has died aged 43 from cancer, her family announced today.
Known for detailing her long battle with illness, the author – and granddaughter of South Africa’s anti-apartheid hero – was admitted to hospital on Monday as part of her ongoing treatment, declared a family spokesperson.
“Zoleka died…surrounded by his friends and family,” Zwelabo Mandela said.
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 affecting his hip, liver, lungs, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.
“We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mama Winnie and Madiba,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation wrote on social media, using the name by which the Nobel Peace Prize winner was affectionately known.
“His work to raise awareness for cancer prevention and his unwavering commitment to ending the stigma surrounding the disease will continue to inspire us all.”
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Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter Zoleka Mandela (pictured) has died aged 43 from cancer, her family announced today.
