Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was a prominent South African anti-apartheid activist and politician, affectionately known as the \"Mother of the Nation.\" Born in 1936 in Bizana, Eastern Cape, she came from a Xhosa royal family and went on to become a qualified social worker.¹
Her life was deeply intertwined with Nelson Mandela\'s, whom she married in 1958 and remained with for 38 years, despite his imprisonment. During his incarceration, Winnie became the public face of the anti-apartheid movement, enduring detention, torture, and banishment for her activism.
Winnie\'s activism wasn\'t without controversy. She faced criticism for her involvement with the Mandela United Football Club, which was linked to human rights abuses, including kidnappings, torture, and murders. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission found her \"politically and morally accountable\" for these violations.
In the post-apartheid era, Winnie served as a Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture. However, her political career was marred by allegations of corruption, leading to her dismissal from the cabinet.
Despite these challenges, Winnie remained a beloved figure among many ANC supporters. She passed away in 2018, leaving behind a complex legacy as a champion of equality and justice.
