Winnie Madikizela-Mandela has died at the age of 81, her family confirmed on Monday. The cause of her death is not immediately known but the family said in a statement it was after a long illness.
Madikizela-Mandela, otherwise known as the Mother of the Nation, was a struggle-hero, who fought alongside Nelson Mandela to free South African from the grips of Apartheid.
The unexpected news took South Africans and the world by shock, many taking to social media to send condolences to the family.
#WinnieMandela May her soul Rest In Peace ? pic.twitter.com/PTV1AoAyET
— Nana Fatima Nambela (@nanambela) April 2, 2018
Long Live #WinnieMandela
Rest In Power Mama pic.twitter.com/OXseoA6Ro2— Slomokazi (@slomokazi) April 2, 2018
Rest in Paradise #WinnieMandela ♥️ pic.twitter.com/g6uUme3a0z
— Rah Willz (@rahwillz) April 2, 2018
Late #WinnieMandela 's name might have been prominent for working alongside The Great Nelson Mandela, but Mama a.k.a Nomzamo must be equally celebrated & respected for rightfully earning her place in the Liberation of South Africa. She is worth more than lesser 'Former Wife' tag. pic.twitter.com/8Rk4ivf6PT
— A B D I N O O R ?? ™ (@Abdynoor) April 2, 2018
Intelligent. Courageous. Strong. Brave. Bold. Fearless. Determined. Passionate. A leader. Rest In Peace Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. #WinnieMandela pic.twitter.com/y9Btm3bfOR
— MELODY MOLALE (@MelodyMolale) April 2, 2018
Rest in peace mama of the nation…silahlekelwe isizwe #WinnieMandela pic.twitter.com/oczh2PsEYe
— #IAmAnAfrican (@lfmakhubalo) April 2, 2018
Pictures: Twitter