Statement on the Death of Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri

"I was saddened to learn of the death of Dr Ivy Matsepe-Cassaburi, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends," said Archbishop Thabo Makgoba, following his return to South Africa late on 7 April after lecturing in the United States.

"She was a remarkable woman - a pioneer among women, particularly in chairing the SABC and as Premier of the Free State, and among the trail blazers in parliament and in the Cabinet. I also want to pay tribute to her work in the fields of gender, education, economic development and local government. Her life stands as an encouragement to all young women in this country to take their rightful place in leadership in every sector, from politics and business through to the church.

"Dr Matsepe-Cassaburi's passing in Holy Week comes as we contemplate the mysteries of human mortality, and how Jesus' Christ's self-giving and death upon the cross and rising again, offers us a sure and certain hope of life beyond the grave' said the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town. 'My prayer is that those who loved her and now mourn her loss will find comfort in the promises of the one who called himself "the Way, the Truth, the Life" and who has opened for us the gateway to the life of heaven. I commend her to the infinte love of our eternal God, praying she may rest in peace and rise in glory."