The South African Local Government Associations (SALGA) would like to convey its condolences to the Madikizela-Mandela family on the passing of Mrs Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

On behalf of Local Government, we lower our banner to honour her life which she dedicated to the emancipation of the people of South Africa.  A fearless and a gallant fighter of our time, Mrs Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was a real servant – both in character and standing. She was kind, caring to others, always siding with the people.

These are the leadership traits and values our leaders, young and old, should forever emulate, to never be too distant to the people one is meant to serve.  While we mourn her life, let us celebrate her great contribution in the fight against Apartheid.

Local government is the sphere of government closest to the people. Many basic services are delivered by local municipalities and local ward councillors are the politicians closest to communities.  Therefore, we cannot divorce Mrs Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s activism from what Local Government stands for or should aspire to be.

In honour of her life, local municipalities and councillors should be sensitive to community views and responsive to local problems. At the coalface of service delivery, we must continue to be activists and play our developmental role in inspiring service delivery.

South Africa and the World should remember Mrs Winnie Madikizela-Mandela as an icon and heroine of the struggle dedicated to the total emancipation of the people.

Lala ngoxolo Mama Winnie.

Issued By South African Local Government Association