By Ken Afor
Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of late South African anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela has died.
She died at age 43, after a long battle with cancer.
According to Zwelabo Mandela, a family spokesperson, Zoleka, died in the hospital while receiving her routine treatment.
“Zoleka passed away… surrounded by friends and family,” the spokesperson said.
Zoleka, a South African writer and activist was the child of Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi Mandela, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
Her battle with the disease revealed that her organs, including her lung, liver and brain and also her hip, pelvis and spinal cord were affected, according to recent scans.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation reacting to Zoleka’s death commended her efforts in raising awareness about cancer.
“We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba.
“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,” the foundation wrote on social media.
It would be recalled in 2011, Zoleka was treated for breast cancer but five years later the disease returned.
Zoleka, a mother of six who lost her 13-year-old daughter, Zenani to a fatal car accident in 2010 wrote about her struggle with alcohol and drugs.
Her selfless service to humanity while she was active earned her a recognition award as one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2016.
