Key Takeaways
- Nolusapho Mandela, the former daughter-in-law of Nelson Mandela, passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 75, following an illness.
- The ANC has conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family, describing Nolusapho as a "revered matriarch" who carried the Mandela name with dignity, humility, and compassion.
- Nolusapho was the widow of Makgatho Mandela and the mother of Mandla Mandela, and played an important role in nurturing family unity and exemplifying values of care, resilience, and service to others.
- The ANC has praised Nolusapho’s unconditional love, boundless strength, and countless treasured memories, and has requested privacy for the family as they mourn and honor her life.
Introduction to Nolusapho’s Passing
Nolusapho Mandela, the former daughter-in-law of Nelson Mandela, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2026, at the age of 75, following an illness. The African National Congress (ANC) has paid tribute to Nolusapho, describing her as a "revered matriarch" who carried the Mandela name with dignity, humility, and compassion. The party has conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family, who are mourning the loss of a beloved family member.
The ANC’s Tribute to Nolusapho
The ANC has praised Nolusapho’s role in nurturing family unity and exemplifying values of care, resilience, and service to others. According to ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu, Nolusapho will be deeply missed, and the party conveys its deepest sympathies to the Mandela family, relatives, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by her. Bhengu said, "The ANC conveys its deepest sympathies to the Mandela family, relatives, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by Mama Nolusapho Mandela. We wish the family strength during this time of mourning and trust that they will find comfort in the legacy of love, grace, and dignity she leaves behind."
Nolusapho’s Family and Legacy
Nolusapho was the widow of Makgatho Mandela and the mother of Mandla Mandela, who is a traditional leader in Mvezo, the birthplace of Nelson Mandela. In a memorial notice shared by Mandla Mandela, the family expressed its deep sadness at Nolusapho’s passing, saying that she blessed them with unconditional love, boundless strength, and countless treasured memories. The family has requested privacy as they mourn and honor her life, and has thanked those who have offered their love and support during this difficult time.
Nolusapho’s Relationship with Mandla
Nolusapho was close to Mandla and played an instrumental role in guiding him when he assumed traditional leadership in Mvezo in 2007. In October 2025, Nolusapho joined calls for Israeli authorities to release Mandla, after he was detained while transporting humanitarian aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla. This incident highlights the strong bond between Nolusapho and her son, as well as her commitment to social justice and human rights.
Memorial Service and Tributes
A memorial service for Nolusapho will be held at the Catholic Church of the Resurrection in Bryanston, and will be attended by ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula. The secretary-general will convey the condolences of the ANC and pay tribute to Nolusapho’s life, dignity, and contribution. The memorial service will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and supporters to come together and celebrate Nolusapho’s life and legacy.
Conclusion and Reflection
Nolusapho Mandela’s passing is a significant loss for the Mandela family and the wider community. Her legacy of love, dignity, and compassion will be deeply missed, but her impact will continue to be felt through the lives of those she touched. As the ANC and the Mandela family mourn her passing, they will also be celebrating her life and the values she embodied. Nolusapho’s story is a testament to the power of family, community, and social justice, and will continue to inspire and motivate others to work towards a more just and compassionate world.