Theresa Solomon, Cape Town’s first Black female mayor, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025. The revered anti-apartheid activist and civic leader died at age 79 after battling illness. Family spokesperson Neil Cole confirmed she was surrounded by loved ones during her final moments.
Solomon served as Cape Town’s groundbreaking mayor from 1996 to 1998. She previously held the position of deputy mayor in 1995. Her historic tenure marked a significant milestone for representation in South African local government. The community activist dedicated her entire life to fighting for justice and equality.
Early Life and Community Activism in District Six and Mitchells Plain
Born in Cape Town’s District Six in 1945, Solomon witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of apartheid. The vibrant multicultural neighborhood shaped her early understanding of community solidarity. District Six’s forced removals in the 1960s influenced her lifelong commitment to social justice.
Solomon became well known and beloved in Mitchells Plain during the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. She worked tirelessly as a community activist in this area. Her grassroots organizing efforts focused on improving living conditions for relocated families. The community fondly knew her as “Com T” throughout her decades of service.
Fighting Apartheid Through Civic Organizations and Women’s Rights
Solomon played a crucial role in several Western Cape liberation movements. She actively participated in the Black Women’s Organisation, advocating for gender equality. Her work emphasized the double oppression faced by Black women under apartheid. These efforts laid the groundwork for future women’s rights initiatives.
She helped establish numerous civic organizations that eventually merged into one umbrella group. The Cape Areas Housing Action Committee became a powerful force for community empowerment. This consolidation strengthened the collective voice of Cape Flats residents. Solomon’s organizational skills proved instrumental in building these lasting institutions.
Landmark Campaigns That Transformed Mitchells Plain Communities
The Mitchells Plain Development Action Collective (MPDAC) highlighted Solomon’s transformative community work. She led the bus boycott that improved public transportation access for residents. Her advocacy secured the establishment of schools, including efforts for Tafelsig. These educational victories provided crucial opportunities for local children.
Solomon opposed rent increases that threatened to displace vulnerable families. She established the Leadwood Creche, providing essential childcare services to working parents. The Woodlands People’s Centre became another lasting legacy of her community development work. These institutions continue serving residents decades after their creation.
Historic Mayoral Term and Diplomatic Service Excellence
Solomon’s appointment as Cape Town’s first Black female mayor represented historic progress. Her tenure from 1996 to 1998 coincided with South Africa’s democratic transition. She worked to address apartheid’s lingering inequalities within the city. Her leadership style emphasized inclusivity and grassroots consultation.
Following her mayoral service, Solomon became South Africa’s High Commissioner to Tanzania and Canada. These diplomatic roles allowed her to represent the new democratic South Africa internationally. Her appointments reflected the government’s confidence in her leadership abilities. She brought her community organizing experience to international relations.
Legacy of Justice and Inspiration for Future Generations
Family spokesperson Neil Cole described Solomon’s enduring impact on South African society. “Solomon will be remembered for her courage, humility and love for the people of South Africa,” he stated. Her dedication to justice and equality touched countless lives across generations. She remained a tireless champion of community empowerment and youth leadership.
Current Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis praised Solomon’s lasting contributions to the city. “Former Mayor Theresa Solomon will be remembered for her dedication to justice and activism, which brought about meaningful change, especially on the Cape Flats,” Hill-Lewis said. Her legacy continues inspiring future leaders to serve their communities with similar dedication.
Remembering a Mother, Grandmother, and Community Builder
Solomon is survived by her daughter Lee-Anne and son-in-law Oscar. Her grandchildren Tina-Malaika and Ruiz carry forward her family legacy. Her brother Jerome also mourns the loss of this remarkable woman. The family reflects the personal relationships that sustained her through decades of public service.
The MPDAC honored Solomon as “a mother, grandmother, community leader… and founder member.” Their tribute emphasized her multifaceted contributions to society. “Rest well, daughter of the soil, we salute your tireless dedication and commitment to building a better community and country,” the organization concluded. Her extraordinary legacy will continue inspiring social justice advocates worldwide.
