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Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati (1925-2015): A tribute to a liberation icon.

During her nearly nine decades, Ruth Mompati was in the thick of the struggle, and was hands on in the phenomenal set of events that culminated in one of the most magnificent victories of modern times – a free South Africa. A pioneer in the Umkhonto we Sizwe military training camps, Mompati was a forerunner for the thousands who would follow. Ruth’s journey through Africa and Europe opened her world, but required sacrificing normal family life for the 27 years she was away. As a long standing member of the ANC National Executive Committee, a Member of Parliament, and an ambassador, Mompati finally came full circle when was elected mayor of her home district in Vryburg, North West Province.

In one of our last interviews with her she said about her life and legacy:

“I think with all the difficulties, it was a life well lived. If I had to choose again l would go out and learn to fight against the regime, I would do exactly the same thing and I am very happy I did.  I would like to be remembered as a cadre who was called, and answered, and who carried out the instructions and the commands of the African National Congress up to the end.”

Hamba Kahle, Mama Ruth

 

AOHA Ruth Mompati Tribute Video from Indelible Media on Vimeo.