NATIONAL NEWS - Winnie Nomzamo Madikizela-Mandela will be laid to rest on 14 April, 2018, during a state funeral.

President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement on Monday night outside the home of the late struggle stalwart in Orlando, Soweto. He had earlier met with the Mandela family to offer his condolences and support.

“At a national government level, we have declared that Winnie Mandela will have a national official funeral. We would like to express our gratitude and our thanks to the many across the country and the world who are wishing us well,” said President Ramaphosa.

The official memorial service of Madikizela-Mandela, affectionately known as the Mother of Nation, will take place on 11 April, 2018.

The president said Madikizela-Mandela had left behind a huge legacy.

“As we say in African culture, [she was] a tree that provided shade for the people of South Africa, for the people who were in the struggle who used to run under this tree for refuge and security. We are sad that this tree has finally fallen,” said President Ramaphosa.

On Monday afternoon, South Africans and the world over learned of the passing of the liberation fighter.

Read more on the Caxton publication, The Citizen.