11 min read

Graça Machel: The Only Woman to Serve as First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique

November 7, 2024

Graça Machel: The Only Woman to Serve as First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique

Graça Machel is an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights and was made an honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for her humanitarian work.

She is the only woman in modern history to have served as First Lady of two countries: South Africa and Mozambique. She is the widow of former President of Mozambique Samora Machel (1975–1986) and former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela (1998–2013).

Graça Machel Biography

Graça Simbine was born 17 days after her father’s death, the youngest of six children, in rural Incadine, Gaza Province, Portuguese East Africa (modern-day Mozambique).

Coming from a modest background, she was the youngest of six children. Despite her family’s economic challenges, Machel showed academic promise early on, and her mother prioritized her education.

She attended Methodist mission schools before gaining a scholarship to the University of Lisbon in Portugal, where she studied German and first became involved in independence issues.

Her academic experience in Lisbon opened her eyes to global issues, inspiring her to take a stand against Portuguese colonial rule and fight for Mozambican independence. Graça Machel also speaks French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and English, as well as her native Xitsonga language.

Activism and Mozambique’s Independence

Following her education in Portugal, Machel returned to Mozambique, a country on the brink of revolution. She joined FRELIMO (Front for the Liberation of Mozambique), a key liberation movement fighting against Portuguese colonial rule.

Machel was deeply involved in the organization, eventually leading FRELIMO’s Department of Education and Culture. Her leadership in FRELIMO propelled her into the political sphere, where she advocated for Mozambican independence and equal rights, particularly in education.

Her work helped revolutionize the educational landscape, making education accessible for all Mozambicans, including women and children. Mozambique gained independence in 1975, and her efforts were instrumental in transforming education across the nation.

Marriage to Samora Machel

In 1975, Graça married Samora Machel, who became Mozambique’s first President after independence. Together they had two children: daughter Josina (born April 1976) and son Malengane (born December 1978).

This union was more than a marriage; it symbolized a partnership built on shared ideals. Together, they were dedicated to uplifting Mozambique and addressing the many challenges the country faced in the post-independence era.

However, in 1986, tragedy struck when Samora Machel died in a plane crash, believed to be caused by sabotage. Machel was devastated but channeled her grief into furthering his legacy, continuing her work to uplift Mozambique and advocating for peace and justice across Africa.

Children’s Rights and Humanitarian Work

Graça Machel is one of the world’s foremost advocates for children’s rights. In 1994, then-UN Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali appointed her to conduct a global study on the impact of armed conflict on children.

Her report, Impact of Armed Conflict on Children, shed light on the trauma, exploitation, and abuse faced by children in war zones. This report was groundbreaking, leading to greater protections for children affected by conflict and more focus on their needs within the United Nations system.

Graça Machel Trust

In 2010, she founded the Graça Machel Trust, a pan-African organization focused on advancing women’s and children’s rights, education, food security, and good governance.

Through this trust, Machel has been able to work on issues like improving maternal health, empowering female entrepreneurs, and increasing access to quality education across Africa.

The Graça Machel Trust also collaborates with other organizations and governments to address structural issues affecting Africa’s most vulnerable populations.

Marriage to Nelson Mandela

Graça Machel Mandela married her second husband, Nelson Mandela, in Johannesburg on 18 July 1998, Mandela’s 80th birthday. Making her the only woman in history to have been the first lady of two different countries.

Their relationship was one of mutual respect and admiration, and Machel was instrumental in supporting Mandela’s initiatives for peace and reconciliation in South Africa.

Together, they formed one of the most iconic couples in history, with both using their platform to champion human rights and address global issues like poverty and HIV/AIDS.

After Mandela’s death in 2013, Machel continued her humanitarian work, determined to honor his legacy by advocating for peace, justice, and equality.

Businesses and Ventures

Though Graça Machel is not traditionally associated with business in the corporate sense, her work through her trust, various board memberships, and advisory roles align with an entrepreneurial approach to humanitarian work. Some notable involvements include:

Board memberships and advisory roles

African Progress Panel: Machel has served on the African Progress Panel, a think tank focused on sustainable development across the African continent. The panel advocates for equitable growth and fair resource management, especially in the extractive industries.
The Elders: Graça Machel was an active member of The Elders, a group founded by Nelson Mandela that includes world leaders working together on human rights and social issues.
African Women’s Economic Summit: Machel has been a speaker and advocate in various economic summits, pushing for gender equality in the economic sphere.

Machel’s involvement in these organizations highlights her approach to business: using platforms and partnerships to mobilize resources, influence policy, and create opportunities for underserved communities.

Graça Machel Net Worth

While Graça Machel’s net worth is not publicly documented, her financial status is believed to be substantial, especially given her marriage to Nelson Mandela, who himself had significant wealth.

However, Machel’s wealth is largely channeled back into her philanthropic and humanitarian efforts. Her commitment to social causes and improving the lives of others has always been her priority, making her financial standing secondary to her impactful work.

Honours, Awards and International Recognition

Honours

Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic (GYC), 1997 Spain).
Honorary Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE), 1997 United Kingdom).
Honorary Fellow of the British Academy (Hon FBA), 2017 United Kingdom).

Awards

Nansen Medal of the United Nations, 1995 United Nations).
Global Citizen Award of the New England Circle, 1997.
InterAction’s Humanitarian Award, 1997.
North-South Prize of the Council of Europe, 1998 Council of Europe).
Princess of Asturias Award (International Cooperation), 1998 Spain).
World’s Children’s Prize (together with Nelson Mandela), 2005.
Decade Child Rights Hero (together with Nelson Mandela) by 7.1 million children through a Global Vote, organized as part of the educational World’s Children’s Prize Program, 2010.
World Health Organization Gold Medal, 2018 WHO).
Major award from CARE as result-longstanding work on behalf of children.

Honorary doctorates

Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (Hon. DHL) from the University of Massachusetts, 2006 USA)
Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa (DPhil h.c.) from the University of Stellenbosch, 2008 South Africa).
Doctor honoris causa (Dr. h.c.) by University of Barcelona, 2008 Spain).
Doctor honoris causa (Dr. h.c.) by University of Évora, 2008 Portugal).
Doctor in Laws honoris causa (LL.D. h.c.) by Trinity College Dublin, 2015 Ireland).
Doctor honoris causa (Dr. h.c.) by Leiden University, 2021 Netherlands).

Graça Machel’s Influence on Africa

As one of Africa’s most respected voices, Machel’s influence extends across the globe. Through her trust, public speaking, and various initiatives, she continues to advocate for social justice, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Her work has influenced policies and practices at both national and international levels, particularly concerning the welfare of children in war-affected areas and the empowerment of African women.

Machel’s commitment to education and youth empowerment has been especially impactful. She has been vocal about the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and has led initiatives to ensure that African children, especially girls, have access to quality education.

Her advocacy has inspired countless individuals and organizations to invest in educational programs and prioritize child rights. Graça Machel’s life philosophy is centered around social justice, equality, and a commitment to humanitarian work.

Her vision for Africa is one of self-sufficiency, where African nations can thrive independently, harnessing their resources to uplift their populations. In her own words:

“The African continent is rich. Our people have all the right ingredients to thrive. What we need is to empower our women, educate our children, and hold our leaders accountable to build a sustainable future.”

Conclusion

Graça Machel’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. She has dedicated her life to the service of others. Using her platform to advocate for human rights, children’s welfare, and gender equality. Her impact spans continents and generations, making her an enduring symbol of hope and progress.

In a world that often marginalizes the vulnerable, Machel stands as a powerful advocate, proving that one person can indeed change the world. Her story is an inspiration to millions, and her work will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Africa and the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Graça Machel still alive?

Yes, Graça Machel is still alive. She is still active in various humanitarian and advocacy efforts. As a prominent advocate for children’s rights, women’s empowerment, and social justice, Machel remains influential both within Africa and globally.

Through her work with the Graça Machel Trust and her involvement in organizations like The Elders, she actively promotes education, health, and economic empowerment for underserved communities. Her resilience and dedication to social causes keep her at the forefront of issues impacting Africa and the world.

Where does Graça Machel live now?

Graça Machel currently resides in South Africa, where she has lived for many years, especially following her marriage to Nelson Mandela in 1998.

After Mandela’s passing in 2013, Machel chose to stay in South Africa, continuing her humanitarian work and involvement in various social justice initiatives. Her home in South Africa serves as a base for her work with the Graça Machel Trust and other organizations, as well as her advocacy efforts across Africa.

Machel also travels extensively, often visiting Mozambique, where her family roots are, and where she remains a respected figure.

Her presence in South Africa and Mozambique symbolizes her deep ties to both countries, reflecting her commitment to improving lives and advancing social justice across the continent.

Where is Graça Machel now?

Graça Machel continues to be actively engaged in her humanitarian work, particularly through her foundation, the Graça Machel Trust, which is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Trust works across the African continent to promote women’s and children’s rights, food security, education, and good governance.

Machel divides her time between this work and various international roles, where she collaborates with organizations like The Elders, a group of global leaders committed to peace and human rights that she joined in 2010.

In addition to her trust and advocacy, Machel is often invited as a speaker at major international events. She addresses issues related to social justice, African development, and gender equality.

Her work remains centered in Southern Africa, but her influence extends globally as she participates in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of marginalized communities.

How did Graça Machel and Nelson Mandela meet?

Graça Machel and Nelson Mandela first met while both were actively involved in humanitarian work. Mandela was also involved in various social causes following his release from prison in 1990.

Graça Machel, who had dedicated her life to advancing children’s and women’s rights, met Mandela through mutual acquaintances in the global activist community.

Though she initially hesitated to become involved with another world leader after the tragic death of her first husband, Samora Machel. But Mandela’s warmth and compassion gradually won her over. They shared a deep mutual respect, shared values, and a profound commitment to improving lives across Africa.

References: