Nelson Mandela Foundation

3 June, 2011 – On behalf of our Founder, board of Trustees and staff, we would like to offer our deepest condolences on the passing last night of MaSisulu to her family, comrades and friends.

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A stalwart in our freedom struggle and in the early years of our new democracy and a pillar of strength for the Sisulu family when her husband Walter was in jail, she served as an example of selflessness and service.

As Nelson Mandela said in 2003 at the opening of the Walter Sisulu Paediatric Cardiac Centre, “She [Albertina] deserves so much credit for the quality of a life of service that Walter led. Her own sacrifice and service deserve as much of our respect and recognition.”

We note that on 9 May 1994 in Parliament Albertina Sisulu nominated Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela to be president of a democratic South Africa. He was then unanimously elected by Members of Parliament.

She was, as Mr. Mandela said, quite simply “wise and wonderful”. South Africa has lost a treasure.

Lala ngoxolo MaSisulu
From Achmat Dangor
Chief Executive, Nelson Mandela Foundation

To read more about MaSisulu, please click here.