Graça Machel
- Born:
- October 17, 1945, Gaza Province, Portuguese Mozambique (now Mozambique)
- Nationality:
- Mozambican
- Profession(s):
- Politician, Humanitarian
Early Life and Education
- Received a scholarship to study at the United Methodist Mission School in Lhanguene.
- Later attended the Universidade de Lisboa in Portugal, studying German.
- Became involved in the Mozambican nationalist movement while a student.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined the Mozambican Liberation Front (FRELIMO) in 1973.
- Served as Minister of Education and Culture in Mozambique from 1975 to 1989, focusing on literacy campaigns and educational reform.
- Appointed UN Expert on the Impact of Armed Conflict on Children in 1994, leading to the influential "Machel Report".
- Served on the UN Secretary-General's Advisory Group on Children and Armed Conflict.
- Established the Foundation for Community Development (FDC) in Mozambique.
- Co-founded the Graça Machel Trust, an organization working to improve the lives of women and children in Africa.
Relationship with Nelson Mandela
- Graça Machel's first husband, Samora Machel, was the first President of Mozambique.
- After Samora Machel's death in 1986, she later became romantically involved with Nelson Mandela.
- The relationship was well-publicized, and Nelson Mandela married Graça Machel biography details often cover their shared commitment to social justice and African development.
- They married on Nelson Mandela's 80th birthday, July 18, 1998.
- She remained married to Nelson Mandela until his death in 2013.
Notable Works
- "The Impact of War on Children" (also known as the "Machel Report"), a UN study on the effects of armed conflict on children.
- Advocacy for children's rights and education through various international organizations and foundations.
Legacy and Impact
Graça Machel is a highly respected international advocate for children's rights, education, and social justice. Her work has had a profound impact on policy and practice in these areas, particularly in Africa. She continues to champion the empowerment of women and girls and to promote sustainable development. Her role as a prominent figure, and the details of Nelson Mandela married Graça Machel biography, have cemented her place as an influential figure.