Media Statement

The African National Congress (ANC) honours Mama Albertina Nontsikelelo Sisulu, whose life of courage, sacrifice and service helped shape our democratic South Africa. A nurse, freedom fighter and steadfast organiser of women, she understood that liberation must bring meaningful change to the homes, workplaces and communities of our people.

Mama Sisulu and her generation fought for the vision articulated in the Women’s Charter of 1954: free and compulsory education for every child; maternity homes, welfare clinics, crèches and nursery schools in rural and urban communities; and proper homes with water, electricity, transport and sanitation. These demands find expression in the rights enshrined in our Constitution and remain central to building a society founded on dignity and equality.

Over 32 years of freedom, this vision has found practical expression in expanded educational opportunities. From only 25% of five-year-olds attending school in 1994, participation exceeded 90% by 2022. The introduction of Grade R and the integration of early childhood development into Basic Education have advanced the responsibility to give every child a strong foundation, regardless of family income or place of birth.

As a nurse, Mama Sisulu would have recognised the profound significance of expanded healthcare for women and children. Today, 96% of women give birth in a health facility, alongside gains in reducing maternal and infant mortality. These advances give practical meaning to the Womens’ Charter’s demand for the protection of mother and child, while reinforcing the urgency of improving the quality and accessibility of care.

Women’s property ownership also reflects significant progress towards economic security. According to Lightstone Property and Deeds Register data, women-only owners account for approximately 2.15 million properties, or 38%, while women co-own another 1.88 million, or 33%, compared with 1.69 million properties owned by men alone, or 29%. Expanded access to water, electricity, sanitation and the internet since 1994 has also helped improve household conditions and access to opportunity.

These achievements carry the imprint of Mama Sisulu’s struggle, but persistent poverty, unemployment, unequal access to services and violence against women demand renewed action.The most fitting honour we can bestow on Mama Albertina Sisulu is to work tirelessly for an overwhelming

ANC victory on 4 November 2026, advancing the cause to which she dedicated her entire life: a better life for all. This demands that every cadre and volunteer engage our communities with humility, listen to their concerns and demonstrate through practical action that the ANC remains committed to serving the people. Such a victory must translate into accountable leadership, stronger municipalities and reliable services that restore dignity to every household. We must carry her legacy forward by building communities where women live free from violence, children grow up with opportunity and no family is condemned to poverty or neglect.

The ANC honours her by advancing the unfinished work of women’s emancipation, protecting every child’s future and ensuring that the freedoms secured through sacrifice translate into dignity and opportunity for all.

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