Update on the Passing of Gugu Zulu

The news of the passing of South African rally driver Gugu Zulu, whilst attempting to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, remains devastating news for the Nelson Mandela Foundation. In a media release today, the Foundation said: “We are trying hard to come to terms with his passing. Our thoughts are with Gugu’s family, his wife Letshego and their daughter Lelethu at this difficult time.”

Sello Hatang, the CEO of the Foundation is currently with Gugu’s wife, Letshego Zulu in Tanzania.

Hatang is working closely with the Tanzanian authorities, the South African High Commissioner in Tanzania, H. E. Mr. Thami Mseleku; Home Affairs in South Africa and the Tanzanian Ambassador to South Africa, H. E. Ms. Radhia Msuya who have all been extremely co-operative and supportive to help bring Gugu back home.

The Foundation said: “We would like to thank them for all their efforts in assisting the Foundation, the trekkers and the Zulu family. South African Airways, the official carrier for the Trek4Mandela project, have also offered their support.

“We are currently awaiting documentation from Tanzanian authorities and South Africa’s Home Affairs before travel arrangements can be made. We are hoping to resolve these issues today before flight details can be confirmed.”

All the trekkers returning from the summit are safe and were informed last night of the passing of Gugu. According to the media release they were devastated by the news.

They are currently making their way down the mountain and are due to return to South Africa on Wednesday, 20 July at 6.15pm. The Foundation was unable to confirm at this stage if Letshego Zulu will return on the same flight.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation will schedule a press conference and a memorial service on their return.