Ramaphosa says Gertrude Shope an outstanding matriarch of liberation struggle
Ramaphosa delivered the eulogy at the late ANC struggle stalwart's funeral, held at Wits University on Saturday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering the eulogy at the late African National Congress (ANC) stalwart Gertrude Shope’s funeral at Wits University on 31 May 2025. Picture: X/GautengANC
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the late African National Congress (ANC) stalwart, Gertrude Shope, as an outstanding matriarch of the struggle for liberation.
He delivered the eulogy at Shope’s funeral, which was underway at Wits University on Saturday.
She died last Thursday at the age of 99.
Shope has been lauded for her contributions in enhancing both women's and workers’ rights.
Ramaphosa said Saturday was a celebration of a life that helped to shape South Africa’s democracy.
“Today, South Africa stands tall as a constitutional democracy that enshrines the human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. We have stood firm in our conviction that the struggle for racial equality cannot be separated from the struggle for gender equality.”
He also described Ma Shope, as she was affectionately known, as a trailblazer for women’s emancipation.
Ramaphosa said South Africa’s democracy would be incomplete without the affirmation of women and their rights.
“She taught us that liberation, without the liberation of women, means our revolution is unfinished. She also taught us that democracy, without the voice of women, is a fragile and partial democracy.”
‘EMBODIED SPIRIT OF FREEDOM CHARTER’
Shope was also praised for rejecting Bantu education and instead joining forces to fight for a liberated South Africa.
Ramaphosa told mourners that she refused to accept dictates that included imparting inferior education to Black children.
This, he said, was intended to prepare them for menial labour once they joined the workforce.
The president said Shope embodied the spirit of the Freedom Charter, which was a guiding document of the South Africa they envisioned 70 years ago.
“She personally took up its mantra, that the doors of learning and culture shall be opened. She is one of those who would have been overjoyed, in celebratory mode, as we would celebrate the anniversary of the Freedom Charter later this month.”
EXEMPLARY INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT, AND DISCIPLINE
Shope’s grandchildren hailed her as a stout patriot for the equality of women and girls.
Ma Shope’s grandson, Molefe Shope, shared during the funeral that his grandmother had a deep affection for education and a balanced life.
“She was very strict on the issue of education and would say, ‘make sure you study so that when we go home, you can contribute positively to the society’. She loved taking care of flowers, her favourites being carnations and roses. Oh my, Mashope did not want to see anyone dressed shabbily, dirty, or unpresentable. She was always prim and proper and prioritised healthy living.”
The granddaughter of the former president of the ANC Women’s League, Gomolemo Mafole, also shared a few words about her grandmother.
“Ma Gete, you will be sorely missed. Her fierce love for the ANC, uMkhonto weSizwe, ANC Women’s League, her country and family will never be forgotten. Her integrity, commitment, and discipline were exemplary as a leader and as a person.”
Shope was laid to rest at West Park Cemetery.