Zoleka Mandela passes away
South African writer and activist Zoleka Mandela has passed
away at the age of 43 following a long battle with cancer.
Mandela, who is also the granddaughter of struggle stalwarts Nelson and Winnie Madikizela- Mandela spoke openly about her journey with bone metastasis on social media.
She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor.
The family confirmed her passing in a statement on Tuesday morning.
"On Monday, September 18th, Zoleka Mandela was admitted into hospital for ongoing treatment 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," says family spokesperson Zwelabo Mandela.
She died on the eve of her late grandmother's birthday.
Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda will on Tuesday officially unveil the renaming of William Nicol to Winnie Mandela Drive in honour of the late struggle icon.
