Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of South African anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela, has passed away at the age of 43 after battling cancer, her family announced on Tuesday.
Zoleka, well-known for openly sharing her extended struggle against the disease, was admitted to the hospital on Monday as part of her ongoing treatment, according to a family spokesperson.
“Zoleka passed away… surrounded by friends and family,” said Zwelabo Mandela.
She was the daughter of Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi Mandela, and her first husband, Zwelibanzi Hlongwane.
The family revealed that recent scans showed “significant” progress in the cancer that had affected various parts of her body.
“We mourn the loss of a beloved grandchild of Mum Winnie and Madiba,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation wrote on social media, using the name by which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was fondly known.
“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.”