South African anti-apartheid activist and ex-wife of former president Nelson Mandela has died at the age of 81 after a long illness, a statement from her Personal Assistant Zodwa Zwanethe confirmed on Monday.
Winnie Madikizela Mandela was a symbol of the anti-apartheid struggle as she fought alongside her former husband Nelson Mandela who had become president after 27 years in prison.
Her marriage with Nelson Mandela formally ended in 1996 after four years of separation following controversies surrounding her personal and political life.
She had two children with Nelson Mandela.
Winnie Madikizela Mandela’s family is expected to release a statement later in the day.
