Media Statements

Today, the African National Congress (ANC) joins the people of South Africa in commemorating the 107th birthday of Mama Nontsikelelo Albertina Sisulu, a fearless leader, freedom fighter, revolutionary cadre, and stalwart of our liberation movement.

Mama Albertina Sisulu stands among the generation of great heroines who shaped the course of our national liberation struggle. A founding figure in the 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings, she belonged to that valiant generation of women who declared to the apartheid regime: “Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo!”

As a tireless organiser, a nurse, a mother, and a lifelong activist who devoted every fibre of her being to the cause of freedom, justice, and equality. Her commitment to the oppressed and marginalised was unshakable, her courage unyielding, and her discipline exemplary. Mama Albertina was also the only woman present at the founding Congress of the ANC Youth League in 1944, an affirmation of her early and enduring dedication to the advancement of youth and the struggle for gender equality.

Her words in 1987 still resonate powerfully today that “Women are the people who are going to relieve us from all this oppression and depression… It is the women who are in the street committees educating the people to stand up and protect each other.”

In the dawn of democracy, Mama Albertina Sisulu continued to inspire the nation. During the first democratic Parliament in 1994, she made history by nominating Comrade Nelson Mandela for election as the first President of the Republic of South Africa during a defining moment in our collective journey toward freedom. As we remember her on this day, we reaffirm our commitment to her vision of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous South Africa. Her spirit lives on in every woman and man who dedicates themselves to service, integrity, and the upliftment of our people.

Long live the undying spirit of Mama Nontsikelelo Albertina Sisulu! Long live the Mother of the Nation!

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