Government has thanked South Africans for participating in the official memorial service at the Orlando Stadium in remembering and celebrating the life of struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
“The decorum shown during the memorial service and the vibrant manner in which Mama Winnie Madikzela-Mandela was honoured is a true reflection of the love for the ‘Mother of our Nation’,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General Phumla Williams.
Madikizela-Mandela passed away on 2 April 2018 at Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg after a long illness.
Following the news of her passing, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared that she would be laid to rest in a Special Official Category 1 funeral and would receive a national official memorial service.
The memorial service, held on Wednesday at Orlando in Soweto, was broadcast live across all television and radio stations, including community radio, allowing South Africans in every part of the country to join the celebration of her life.
“We honoured in jubilant celebration the life of the mother of our nation. In paying tribute to Mama Winnie, South Africans displayed the true spirit of Ubuntu which is the heart of our democracy.
“The country owes Mama Winnie a great debt of gratitude for the role she played in the struggle for liberation and for the many sacrifices she had made so that all South Africans enjoy the precious freedom we have today,” said the Acting DG.
The President also declared a period of mourning following her passing which continues until 14 April 2018.
Mama Winnie, as she became known to South Africans, will be laid to rest on Saturday. Her funeral will also be held at Orlando Stadium.
“Over the next two days let us all continue to share our fond memories and pay tribute to Mama Winnie. Books of condolence remain accessible, nationally and at our diplomatic missions,” said Acting DG Williams.
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