Funeral arrangement is set for Madikizela Mandela

Madikizela Mandela, who was an anti-apartheid, campaigner died on Monday at the age of 81.

Late Winnie Mandela, South Africa’s 1st black president’s former wife, will enjoy a state funeral by the South African government.

Madikizela Mandela, who was an anti-apartheid, campaigner died on Monday at the age of 81.

“Freedom fighter Winnie Nomzamo Madikizela-Mandela will be laid to rest on 14 April 2018, during a state funeral,” a government statement read.

Ahead of the funeral, an official memorial service of Madikizela-Mandela will take place on 11 April 2018. President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement on Monday night after visiting the family home of the former activist in Orlando, Soweto.

“At a national government level, we have declared that Winnie Mandela will have a national official funeral. We would like to express our gratitude and our thanks to the many across the country and the world who are wishing us well,” said President Ramaphosa.

In a televised tribute, Mr. Ramaphosa described Madikizela-Mandela a “champion of justice and equality” whose “dedication to the plight of her people gained her the love and the respect of the nation”.