We have been deeply saddened to hear that Comrade Jessie Duarte has passed away. We send heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and comrades.
Jessie’s extraordinarily rich life intersected with that of Nelson Mandela and with the journey of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Together with Barbara Masekela, between 1990 and 1994 she gave Madiba the dedicated executive assistance he needed in those tumultuous years of transition. She became both comrade and friend to him. Jessie was the beloved sister of Achmat Dangor, renowned author and the chief executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation between 2007 and 2012.
We join with many in saying hamba kahle to an outstanding South African. She will be missed.
[ENDS]
Media Enquiries:
Morongwa Phukubye: Communications Officer