Pretoria: Cabinet, at its ordinary meeting on Wednesday, expressed condolences to the family of the former Deputy Minister of Provincial and Local government, Nomatyala Hangana.

Hangana passed away at a private clinic in George in the Southern Cape after a short illness on 3 August.

“Further to the pronouncement by President Jacob Zuma, the former Deputy Minister Hangana was a dedicated and committed campaigner for women’s rights,” said Government Communications (GCIS) in a statement on Friday, issued after Cabinet’s ordinary meeting.

Zuma had earlier described her as a committed campaigner for women’s rights and someone who effectively and visibly led the government campaign – 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children.

“She served her country diligently as an activist and also as a member of the National Executive of government. It was a life well-lived. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, comrades and friends. May they be strengthened and comforted by the knowledge that her contribution and legacy will live on,” said Zuma.

She served as Deputy Minister from April 2004 to May 2009 and she chaired the Portfolio Committee on Housing between 1997 and 1999.

The late Hangana was also a member of the National Executive Committee of the ANC Women’s League and also served as a Member of the Executive Council for Housing in the Western Cape.