ANCWL’s Mnganga-Gcabashe dies at 64

She died on Saturday at the age of 64.

Mnganga-Gcabashe was serving as a Member of Parliament and the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Tourism at the time of her death. 

The ANC announced her passing in a statement on Sunday, although the cause of death has not been disclosed.

Tributes have been pouring in for Mnganga-Gcabashe, who has been lauded as a leader who served with discipline and dignity. 

She was elected Deputy President of the ANC Women’s League in 2022. 

In its tribute, the ANC described her as more than just a political figure. 

“Her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts and in the liberation movement as a whole. She was a beacon of calm in turbulent times, a voice of reason when the noise was loud, and a steady hand in the rebuilding of our country’s democracy.”

The party also lauded Mnganga-Gcabashe for her compassionate, accountable approach to governance.

“She helped build the ANCWL from the ground up, house to house, woman by woman. She was never too senior to listen, never too distant to serve. Whether as a volunteer organiser in the townships, a Provincial Chairperson of the ANCWL, or a national leader of our movement, Comrade Lungi remained grounded in the values of our struggle: humility, revolutionary discipline, and people-centred leadership."

“She made oversight an act of love — love for the Constitution, for the people, and for South Africa."

"Her death marks the loss of a steadfast leader who, colleagues say, never lost sight of the people she served."

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