We received with great sadness, the news of the passing on of Ms Bertha Gxowa, one of the most committed heroines of the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa.
Ma-Bertha, as she was affectionately known, succumbed to illness in the early hours of this morning, 19 November 2010. She is one of many men and women who selflessly chose to dedicate their lives to the people of this country and the improvement of the quality of life for all South Africans. As a nation we shall be eternally grateful and are very proud of her.
A staunch trade unionist, freedom fighter, and a strong advocate for women's rights and emancipation throughout her life, Ma-Bertha began her political life in the garments workers trade union in the early 1950s, during which years she also joined the Youth League of the ANC. She was to incur the wrath of the apartheid security machinery as she fought tirelessly for freedom.
She remained a political activist throughout her life and has never retired from public service due to her commitment. This hard working stalwart who also served as a Member of Parliament till her last days, was presented with the Order of Luthuli for her distinguished contribution to the struggle.
She will be sorely missed not only by her family, but by the broader body of the women of South Africa whose rights and wellbeing she tirelessly championed over decades, as well as the entire South African nation for the enduring legacy democracy and equality that she cherished.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
We wish her family strength during this trying moment.
May Her Soul Rest In Peace!
Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148
Source: Sapa
