BY OBAKENG MAJE
South Africans paid tribute to the African National Congress fallen hero,
Mama Ruth Segomotsi Mompati at Vryburg, in North West on Saturday.
The funeral of Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, who passed away two weeks ago was buried at Huhudi cemetery, near Vryburg.
The funeral was hosted at Vryburg Dome Show-ground.
Amongst those who attended the funeral were South African president, Jacob Zuma, Deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa, Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, African Union Commission chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and other ANC and Government officials.
The late ANC stalwart Ruth Mompati(89) was described as a nurturer, a guardian and selfless principled leader.
ANC veteran, Sophie De Bruyn said it is not possible to describe Mama Ruta in great details.
“She is among those who permanently stays in the hearts of her people. She has a vast history abroad and here at home. She left us with tools to contribute in improving other people’s lives” Sophie de Bruyn said.
According to mourners, they said true to her name Segomotsi, which means ‘Comforter’ in setswana, she was to play the role of mother, aunt, sister, friend and grandmother to hundreds of young and old who found themselves separated from their own as a result of apartheid brutality.
President Jacob Zuma has described the late ANC stalwart Ruth Mompati as an exceptional freedom fighter and a disciplined activist.
The 89-year-old died on 12th of this month, in Cape Town, at the Military hospital.
Mompati’s family representative, Sindisiwe Ngaba paid tribute to Mama Ruta and took mourners down memory lane as she spoke fondly about her.
“Mama Ruta’s life touched the hearts of many. She was a loving mother and grandmother to all and always carried herself elegantly” Ngaba said.
Ruth Mompati was described as firm, strict but structured, balanced and gentle human being who was also a devout Christian.
Her death marks an end of years of dedicated service to the ANC in exile and in post-Apartheid South Africa.
President Zuma delivered a eulogy in Mompati’s honour at her official burial ceremony in Vryburg in the North-West on Saturday.
Mama Ruta as she was fondly known by those close to her was regarded as an international icon as she played an important role in the struggle for the liberation of this country.
The President has urged women and young people to emulate Mompati.
“We gathered here to celebrate Mma Ruta’s life because she dedicated her life to the struggle. When people talk about Dr Ruth Mompati, they get motivated because she brought changes into their lives.
“We are grateful for producing such a revolutionary and selfless person. She was a towering giant in fighting for the freedom we enjoy today. She was an outstanding leader, who embodied values of unity, humility, honesty, hardwork and mutual respect,” Jacob Zuma said.
He encourages all South Africans to take those values and improve their lives.
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_
The Guardian 