WeeklySA_AdminOCTOGENARIAN: “Illustrious daughter of Mozambique and citizen of the world” praised by that country’s president…
By AIM
Mozambican president Daniel Chapo today sent a message of congratulations to social activist and former First Lady of Mozambique Graça Simbine-Machel on the occasion of her 80th birthday.
The message, on behalf of the people and the Government of the Republic of Mozambique, and personally from President Chapo, conveyed the “warmest congratulations” to the birthday celebrant, recognising her as an “illustrious daughter of Mozambique and citizen of the world”.
The head of state highlighted Machel’s dedication to public causes and human rights, stating that on this significant day “we celebrate a life entirely devoted to public service, the service of humanity, and the unwavering defence of human rights, with particular emphasis on the promotion of education, gender equality, and the protection of children”.
Machel, born October 17 1945, boasts many accolades, including an honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for her humanitarian work. She is the only woman in modern history to have served as First Lady of two countries: South Africa and Mozambique. She is the widow of former President of Mozambique Samora Machel (1975–1986) and former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela (1998–2013).
Chapo underscored the impact of her life on the nation: “Her Excellency’s journey is a source of national pride and inspiration for present and future generations. Her courage, wisdom, and dedication to the ideals of social justice and solidarity reflect the highest values of our nation and the spirit of Mozambique.”
Chapo’s message also recognised her influence beyond the country’s borders and her role in promoting Mozambique.
“Through her actions, both within and outside our borders, she has made a decisive contribution to affirming the role of women in society and projecting Mozambique as a country committed to peace, progress, and human dignity,” the president wrote.
In conclusion, the president expressed admiration, stating: “On this day of celebration, we pay tribute to her vision, her example of integrity, and her tireless dedication to the common good.” He also sends wishes for “good health, happiness, and longevity, so that she may continue to inspire our people and the world with her wisdom and commitment to the noblest causes of humanity”.
In a statement released today by her daughter, Jozina Machel on behalf of the Graca Machel Trust, it said: “Today we celebrate our founder, Her Excellency, Graça Machel turning 80.
“For eight decades, Mama Graça has lived a life of service, from the classrooms of Mozambique to the global stage, always carrying with her the voices of women, children, and communities. She is more than a leader, she is our mama, the guiding spirit of this Trust.
“As she turns 80, we also celebrate 15 years of the Graça Machel Trust, 15 years of amplifying African women’s voices, building movements, and advancing the values she has embodied throughout her life. Feliz Aniversário Mama.
Obrigada (Thank you) for showing us that leadership rooted in care leaves a legacy that endures”.
Mandela had met Graca Machel for the first time in 1990 when he visited Mozambique after his release from prison, sealing a respectful friendship that had begun in 1986 when Mandela and Winnie Madikizela had sent Graca Machel a letter of condolence on the death of Samora Machel, her former husband and president of Mozambique at the time.
It was in 1992, after his separation from Winnie Mandela, that a deeper relationship became something of an open secret, though they weren’t seen in public together, and neither of them either confirmed or denied it. However, their relationship would later be confirmed officially – six years later.
Incidentally, Mandela and Machel tied the knot on his 80th birthday on July 18 1998. She was 53 years old at the time.
