Ramaphosa delivered a heartfelt eulogy on Saturday at the funeral service of the late ANC struggle icon Gertrude Shope, held at Wits University. In his address, Ramaphosa praised Shope as a towering figure in South Africa’s liberation movement and a dedicated champion of gender equality.
Shope passed away last Thursday at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of activism, courage, and lifelong dedication to justice and equality. Known affectionately as “Ma Shope,” she was a prominent leader in the African National Congress (ANC), a veteran of the liberation movement, and a former president of the ANC Women’s League.
Ramaphosa Honors Gertrude Shope’s Legacy
During the memorial service, Ramaphosa highlighted Shope’s vital role in the anti-apartheid struggle, particularly her efforts in promoting the rights of women and workers.
“Today is not just a day of mourning, but a celebration of a life well lived—a life that shaped the very foundation of our democracy,” said President Ramaphosa.
He went on to say that Shope was an “outstanding matriarch of the liberation struggle,” whose contributions were instrumental in building the democratic South Africa we know today. Her life, he added, served as an example of integrity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom.
“South Africa stands tall today as a constitutional democracy, enshrining human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. This achievement would not have been possible without the contributions of people like Ma Shope,” Ramaphosa stated.
Ramaphosa emphasized Shope’s leadership in advancing the cause of gender equality within the broader liberation movement. He underscored that true freedom could never be achieved without the liberation of women.
“She taught us that liberation, without the liberation of women, means our revolution is unfinished,” Ramaphosa said. “She also taught us that democracy, without the voice of women, is a fragile and partial democracy.”
Shope was one of the earliest voices to connect the struggle for racial equality with the fight for gender equity. Her work through the ANC Women’s League and uMkhonto weSizwe exemplified her belief that women must be at the forefront of social and political transformation.
Shope’s grandchildren delivered moving tributes at the funeral, remembering her not only as a political figure but as a loving and principled family matriarch.
Her grandson, Molefe Shope, shared that his grandmother had a deep appreciation for education and encouraged academic excellence among her family members.
“She was very strict on the issue of education and would always say, ‘make sure you study so that when we go home, you can contribute positively to society,’” he recalled. “She loved flowers—especially carnations and roses—and she always made sure we were presentable. Healthy living and discipline were important to her.”
Her granddaughter, Gomolemo Mafole, described her as a devoted leader and a fiercely loyal patriot.
“Ma Gete, you will be sorely missed,” Mafole said. “Her fierce love for the ANC, uMkhonto weSizwe, the ANC Women’s League, her country, and her family will never be forgotten. Her integrity, commitment, and discipline were exemplary.”
Gertrude Shope was laid to rest at West Park Cemetery following the ceremony at Wits University. Her passing has been widely mourned by political leaders, activists, and citizens across the country.
For Ramaphosa, Shope’s legacy serves as both a reminder and a challenge. As the president concluded his eulogy, he called on South Africans to continue the work Shope dedicated her life to.
“We must ensure that her ideals live on in our actions. Her fight for justice, equality, and dignity for all people must remain our guiding light,” Ramaphosa said.
He reiterated that the nation’s democracy would be incomplete unless the rights and voices of women are fully recognized and protected.
In honoring Gertrude Shope, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to building a society that lives up to the vision she helped forge—a vision rooted in equality, freedom, and human dignity.
Source- EWN
