STATEMENT BY FREEDOM PARK ON THE PASSING OF MME GERTRUDE NTITI
SHOPE
Pretoria, 23 May 2025 – Freedom Park stands in solidarity with the nation and the global
democratic community in mourning the loss of Mme Gertrude Ntiti Shope. Mme Shope
passed away yesterday at the age of 99.
During her life, Mme Shope received the honour of Isithwalandwe/Seaparankwe. This
accolade is conferred upon individuals who have made significant contributions and sacrifices
to the liberation struggle. The honour of Isithwalandwe was bestowed upon her in recognition
of her courageous involvement in the fight against apartheid. Notably, she led various
organizations, including the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) during the 1950s
and 1960s
Like many others, Mme Shope was compelled to go into exile, residing in several countries
such as Eastern Europe, Botswana, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Zambia. During her time abroad,
she assumed various leadership positions within the ANC.
Upon her return from exile, she played a pivotal role in the re-establishment of the ANC
Women’s League, becoming its first president after exile in 1992. Additionally, she served as
a member of the first democratic parliament from 1994 to 1999. In this capacity, she was
among men and women who contributed to the creation of a new South Africa, emerging from
years of oppression and exploitation.
At Freedom Park, we will fondly remember Mme Shope as the Chairperson of the Freedom
Park Trust. The Trust was founded in 2001 as part of the initiative to create Freedom Park as
a Presidential Project. Her appointment as Chairperson of the Trust reflected the high regard
in which she was held by the nation.
Under her guidance, the Freedom Park Trust reached a significant milestone: initiating the
construction of Phase One of the Park, known as the Garden of Remembrance, in 2003 and
subsequently handing it over to the then president, Thabo Mbeki, in 2004. Notably, under Mme
Shope’s leadership, concrete ideas and plans regarding the future of Freedom Park were developed
and solidified. Consequently, Freedom Park, as it is recognized today—a site honouring those who
sacrificed their lives for South Africa’s liberation and a venue where the comprehensive narrative of
humanity is conveyed through the African perspective, from the creation of the universe to the present
day—was established during Mme Shope’s tenure. As the second Chairperson of the Freedom Park
Trust, she played a key role in concretising Freedom Park infrastructure
The Trust was dissolved in 2009 and transitioned into Freedom Park, which became a
Cultural Institution and an entity under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. The
organization as it exists today is indebted to Mme Shope.
In the case of Mme Shope, the loss is not felt solely by her family and those nearest to her.
The entire nation, with Freedom Park being an integral part of its fabric, has lost a remarkable
figure. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and hope they find solace during
this difficult time.
Rest in Peace Mme Shope!
Issued by:
Dr. Jane Mufamadi
Chief Executive Officer
Freedom Park
Enquiries may be directed to Ms. Tebogo Ramutlwa at 0827933130 or tebogo@freedompark.co.z
