State funeral for Winnie Madikizela-Mandela

Winnie Nomzamo Madikizela-Mandela will be laid to rest on 14 April, 2018, during a state funeral.

President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement on Monday night outside the home of the late struggle stalwart in Orlando, Soweto. He had earlier met with the Mandela family to offer his condolences and support.

“At a national government level, we have declared that Winnie Mandela will have a national official funeral. We would like to express our gratitude and our thanks to the many across the country and the world who are wishing us well,” said President Ramaphosa.

The official memorial service of Madikizela-Mandela, affectionately known as the Mother of Nation, will take place on 11 April, 2018.

The president said Madikizela-Mandela had left behind a huge legacy.

“As we say in African culture, [she was] a tree that provided shade for the people of South Africa, for the people who were in the struggle who used to run under this tree for refuge and security. We are sad that this tree has finally fallen,” said President Ramaphosa.

On Monday afternoon, South Africans and the world over learned of the passing of the liberation fighter.

She passed away at Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg at the age of 81 after a long illness. She had been in and out of hospital since the start of the year, according to a statement released by her family.

The Mandela family urged those who loved Madikizela-Mandela to celebrate her life.

“The Mandela family are deeply grateful for the gift of her life and even as our hearts break at her passing, we urge all those who loved her to celebrate this most remarkable woman.”

In his address to the nation following Mam’ Winnie’s passing, President Ramaphosa appealed for collective reflection on Madikizela-Mandela’s “rich, remarkable and meaningful life” as the nation mourns.

“Let us draw inspiration from the struggles that she fought and the dream of a better society to which she dedicated her life. Today we have lost a mother, a grandmother, a friend, a comrade, a leader and an icon.

“As South Africans, we collectively pass our condolences to the Madikizela and Mandela families. Your loss is our loss as well,” the Presidency said.

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