Ramaphosa expresses sadness at the passing of anti-apartheid activist Gertrude Shope
The former ANC Women's League president died at home on Thursday at the age of 99.
FILE: President Cyril Ramaphosa (left) with former ANCWL president, Gertrude Shope (right). Picture: @CyrilRamaphosa/X
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the passing of African National Congress(ANC) stalwart and anti-apartheid activist Gertrude Shope.
The former ANC Women's League president died at home on Thursday at the age of 99.
READ: Zulu says Shope wasn't celebrated enough for her contribution in fight against apartheid
The late struggle icon has been described as a committed freedom fighter who dedicated her life to challenging the systemic oppression of Black South Africans.
In a statement, the Presidency remembers Shope as a recipient in 2003 of the official order for meritorious service, which recognised South Africans who had rendered exceptional public service.
She was also a trade unionist who lived in exile from 1996 to 1990.
The Presidency has expressed sorrow at the loss of an eminent national heroine and mother to the nation, saying that she made a monumental contribution to the country's struggle for a free and inclusive South Africa.
She's further remembered as a leader who also inspired generations of women and men to emulate her commitment.
The Presidency stated that Shope's legacy will be reflected in the transformation she brought to society.