Madiba remembered as punctual, disciplined and humorous
Former president Nelson Mandela’s personal chef Xoliswa Ndoyiya has recalled her time with the late struggle icon.
“When I come to this house right now there are so many memories,” said Ndoyiya, who cooked for Mandela and his family for close on two decades.
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Graca Machel and former president Thabo Mbeki attended the sod-turning ceremony.
South Africa is celebrating Mandela Day on what would have been his 100th birthday.
Ndoyiya, who wrote a cookbook detailing the meals she prepared for the late struggle icon, spoke about the values Madiba taught her.
Quotes from Ndoyiya’s speech at Madiba’s home:
He used to tell us that he saw equality in everyone.
He had no superiority complex. He used to tell us that I would love everyone to know that to share with people, is not a sin – even if you have little.
It was in this house where Tata would just take people from the fight, not knowing what we have prepared in the house for him, he will just say let’s go home and eat home food.
I am not allowed to say this but Ill tell you as my kids; his telling me to get married. This is Mpilo, he called him by his name, its Reverend Tutu – it was in this house that we heard that stories.
It was in this house where he would punish the children. He (grandchild Ndaba) as early as 6 am before he goes to school, punished because he’s losing all he’s jerseys at school, so he must feel the cold.