Uganda’s highest educational institution Makerere University is to award Winnie Madikizela-Mandela with an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
The university is holding its 68th graduation ceremony. Madikizela-Mandela will be recognized for her contribution towards the fight against apartheid in South Africa.
The decision to award the now 81-year-old activist and politician was unanimously endorsed by the University Senate and Council.
She will not be present to accept the award, however, her daughter will do so on her behalf.
Political scholar Morrison Rwakakamba says Madikizela-Mandela influence not only in South Africa but African politics is deserving of the honor.
“The struggle of Winnie Mandela and her comrades was very much a struggle for justice, equality and for social economic transformation. It was a struggle to have inclusive growth, a struggle against racism,” says Rwakakamba.
Madikizela-Mandela’s struggle is being viewed as an encouragement for those with political ambitions.
Rwakakamba says, “Winnie Mandela can inspire young girls that want to participate in politics, who want to participate in the struggles for justice and democracy. I think it would be very good for the country.”
Uganda’s president Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend the ceremony.
