Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa has died
The Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa, has died. A statement issued by the Presidency says Molewa died in a Pretoria Hospital earlier today, following a period of illness.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s described her death as “a devastating loss to our nation and to the global community”.
“Minister Molewa has distinguished herself in many capacities and causes - from her contribution to our liberation to fighting for equality of women in our society. We shall miss her greatly,” he’s said.
A period of mourning has been declared, with immediate effect.
The flag will be flown at half mast at all flag stations countrywide and at South African diplomatic missions abroad during this time.
Details of commemorative events and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
The ANC’s also issued a statement.
“She has been - and will always remain - a symbol of rare social and political activist,” the ruling party’s said of Molewa, “Our history as a country will not be complete without acknowledging the pivotal role that individuals like her played in enhancing the impact of the collective effort to make South Africa a better place”.