As tributes for the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela continue to pour in from all over the world, Ekurhuleni’s mayor Clr Mzwandile Masina reflects on the life and times of this iconic woman.
ALSO READ: Tributes to South Africa’s Winnie Mandela
“Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was a revolutionary and the mother of our nation,” he said in a statement.
“A selfless fighter, feminist and struggle icon that sacrificed the best years of her life to the emancipation of all South Africans.
“We recall the countless ways Mama Winnie’s years of activism altered the course of South Africa’s future and touched the lives of ordinary citizens.
“During her golden years, she stood as a fountain of wisdom to all political leaders and remained anchored in the principles of freedom and equality.”
ALSO READ: ‘We sing when we’re hurt’: Sorrow, celebration at Winnie Mandela’s home – VIDEO
Masina commented on how the metro was privileged to have developed a long-standing relationship with the late Madikizela-Mandela.
“During the 1980’s Mama Winnie helped set up self-defence units in various townships in and around the former East Rand, as a response to the sporadic violence during the Apartheid era.
“On the dawn of our new democracy, she cast her vote on 27 April 1994 in Phola Park, Tokoza on the East Rand as a result of her close activism in the area.”
In 2016, Madikizela-Mandela was granted the highest honour of the metro, The Freedom of the City Award, in honour of her contributions during South Africa’s liberation struggle.
“As a city, we shall continue preserving her legacy,” said Masina.
He further offered his and the city’s condolences to the Mandela family, “Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
“In her memory, the metro will seek to continue Mama Winnie’s dedication towards alleviating youth unemployment and socio-economic transformation,” he said.
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