AFRICAN National Congress veteran and struggle stalwart, Lydia Komape-Ngwenya was laid to rest on Saturday, 21 October.
She died on Wednesday, 11 October in Polokwane, Limpopo at the age of 88.
Komape-Ngwenya was laid to rest in a Special Provincial Official Funeral, Category 2 which was granted by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday.
Her funeral took place at Ratanang Sports Ground in Tsimanyane Village outside Marble Hall.
Family members, friends and mourners including politicians came together to bid farewell to the stalwart.
Komape-Ngwenya was described as a woman who played a key role in supporting women in the strategies they adopted and implemented.
ANC’s second deputy secretary general, Maropene Ramokgopa said Komape-Ngwenya was a remarkable woman and a fearless fighter.
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She was actively involved in the underground activities of Umkhonto We Sizwe, recruiting and smuggling military trainees into the neighbouring countries en route to Lusaka, Zambia, the then headquarters of the ANC during the apartheid regime.
Former Member of Parliament, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane said they learned a lot from Komape-Ngwenya.
“She taught us about integrity. We are hurt but we will live by her teachings,” she said.
Her grandchild, Tshepiso Manchidi, said they shared a very special bond with her.
“She gave us equal love and lots of opportunities. She was humble, caring and didn’t like seeing other people suffer. She has left a huge gap in our hearts,” he said.
Komape-Ngwenya was elected and served in the National Assembly as an ANC candidate between 1994 and 2009.
She also served two terms in the Limpopo Provincial Legislature as a deputy chief whip between 2009 and 2019.
In delivering eulogy, Premier Stan Mathabatha said they bid farewell to their beloved mother during a pivotal time in the nation’s history.
Mathabatha said Komape-Ngwenya understood that advocating for women’s rights advances the national democratic revolution.
“In her memory, let us condemn and support decisive action when taken against those who perpetuate the oppression of women, GBV, child abuse and discrimination against LGBTIQ+ community. It will be a benefitting tribute to this struggle stalwart to come together, unite and eliminate all forms of gender domination,” he said.
