RIP: Inside Zoleka Mandela’s heartbreaking funeral – Till we meet again

The 43-year-old mum of six died on Monday, 25 September after a year-long struggle with cancer.Her family and friends arrived at the service dressed in white.


Politicians, Julius Malema, Nomvula Mokonyane, and Panyaza Lefusi are also in attendance. The private funeral is only open to people who knew the author.Zoleka’s brother, Zwelabo Mandela told the publication on Thursday, 28 September that she wanted to be buried quickly.The family is still coming to terms with our loss whilst being proactive in delivering a dignified send-off. As per her request, we’ve had to act relatively quickly in order to get this done.“Zoleka was very intentional in the manner in which she navigated life and so it’s our job to have our actions reflect that through this difficult time,” he said.

She will be laid to rest at the Fourways Memorial Park in Joburg, alongside Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Zenani Mandela, and Zindzi Mandela.