ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has described the late Nolusapho Mandela as a dedicated servant of the people and a liberator of women. She passed away on Sunday and was the mother of Mandla Mandela. Tributes highlight her role in shaping lives and institutions with grace.
Nolusapho Mandela, mother of politician Mandla Mandela, died on Sunday. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula paid tribute to her during a service at the Church of the Resurrection in Bryanston, Johannesburg. He portrayed her as a quiet force who influenced families and cultural bodies.
Mbalula noted the influx of condolences reflecting her impact. 'As we mourn the passing of our matriarch, messages of condolences continue to pour in from far and wide,' he said. 'They speak of a woman who, though rarely in the spotlight, shaped lives and institutions with grace. They remind us that heritage is not an event; it is a way of life. That leadership is a daily choice to build, to heal and to serve.'
In a related social media post, Mbalula emphasized her commitment to tradition. Heritage, he wrote, was a living practice for her—something worn, sung, crafted, and taught. She extended her service beyond her family to institutions preserving customs. During her son Mandla's time in Parliament, she temporarily led the Royal House.
As Nelson Mandela's daughter-in-law through marriage to his son Makgatho, Nolusapho's passing draws connections to South Africa's liberation legacy. Her life exemplified service and cultural stewardship, earning widespread respect.
