Born in 1935 in the then Transvaal province of South Africa, Ginwala grew up during a time of great turmoil and inequality. Despite this, she dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of all South Africans. She began her political career as a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and quickly rose through the ranks to become a prominent leader in the anti-apartheid movement.
Frene Ginwala was a true leader and trailblazer in the fight against apartheid in South Africa. Her unwavering dedication to justice and equality for all people, regardless of race or ethnicity, served as an inspiration to many. Her work helped bring about the end of one of the most oppressive systems in modern history and laid the foundation for a more just and equal society.
Throughout her career, Ginwala faced numerous challenges and obstacles, but she never wavered in her commitment to the cause. She was arrested, detained and placed under house arrest multiple times for her activism, but she never gave up. She continued to fight for the rights of all South Africans, even when it seemed like the struggle would never end.
As one of the leading voices in the wake of Sharpeville, Frene Ginwala helped organise Oliver Tambo‘s departure from South Africa, ahead of what seemed like its expected banning.
In exile, Ginwala established an ANC external mission which served as its department of information and publicity, with the support of other struggle activists.
Ginwala’s untiring dedication to justice and equality was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her work helped bring about the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era in South Africa’s history. She was a powerful voice for change and her legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Through her tireless efforts and dedication, Ginwala’s legacy will continue to inspire and impact future generations in their pursuit of a more equitable society.
Ginwala’s work has been widely recognised both locally and abroad, particularly in the areas of democracy, good governance, human rights, human security, anti-apartheid, and men’s issues.
Ginwala was pivotal to noteworthy changes in Parliament. As speaker of the National Assembly between 1994 and 2004, Ginwala opened up a previously austere, racially exclusive, male-dominated and remote institution to the people at large.
Her demise is a huge loss for the anti-apartheid movement, South Africa and the world at large. May her spirit live on forever.
