South Africans worldwide mourn the passing of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela
A memorial service to commemorate the passing of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela will be held on 11 April 2018 at 6pm at
St Peter’s Anglican Church, Wellington.
The South African High Commissioner in Wellington, Ms Vuyiswa Tulelo, says the passing of Mama Winnie on Monday is a
very sad day for South Africans and all those who stood against Apartheid.
“We invite Wellingtonians to join us in honouring the everlasting contribution of Mama Winnie to the struggle through
sacrifice and her unyielding determination.”
“We know many New Zealanders were involved in the anti-Apartheid movement, protesting against the Springbok Tour of New
Zealand in 1981 and they may be interested in celebrating the life of Mama Winnie.”
Mama Winnie was commonly known in South Africa as the Mother of the Nation. Her dedication to the plight of her people
gained her love and the respect of the nation.
She was a South African anti-apartheid activist and politician and served as a member of Parliament from 1994 until her
death on 2 April 2018.
She previously served as the Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology. Mama Winnie was also the
President of the African National Congress Women’s League. Mama Winnie was the ex-wife of former President Nelson
Mandela.
A condolence book will be open for signing at the South African High Commission (Level 7, State Insurance Tower, 1
Willis Street) from 2-4pm from Thursday 5 April to Friday 13 April.