KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has joined South Africans in expressing her deepest condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela.
Mandela, who was the granddaughter of the late first South African democratically elected President Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, passed away on Monday at the age of 43.
She was admitted to hospital on 18 September 2023 for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer in the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.
In her tribute, Dube-Ncube said Mandela was a brave and outspoken advocate for cancer awareness.
“Her story and her fight against cancer inspired many people to seek help and support those who are affected by cancer, and her legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to raise awareness on cancer.
“Zoleka Mandela was a fighter: at a young age she fought abuse and later in life she fought cancer, and in her battle with cancer she became an inspiration to many people. Zoleka was a loving mother to her children, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier said Mandela’s legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to improve the lives of cancer patients in South Africa.
She urged people who are battling cancer to seek help at an early stage so that it is detected and attended to.
“There are many resources available to help people get the support they need, and there is no shame in asking for help. If you are struggling with cancer, please know that you are not alone.
“There are many people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact health professionals," Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
