Tributes pour in for former Cape Town mayor Theresa Solomon

Former Cape Town mayor Theresa Mary Solomon, who died on Monday, has been remembered as a dedicated activist, compassionate leader and pioneering figure in the city’s history.

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis described Solomon as a figure whose contributions left a lasting mark, particularly on the Cape Flats where she championed basic rights and services during a time of hardship.

“Former Mayor Theresa Solomon will be remembered for her dedication to justice and activism, which brought about meaningful change, especially on the Cape Flats, where she played a pivotal role in establishing civic organisations to campaign for amenities in the wake of forced removals in the 1970s, including schools, hospitals, and police stations,” said Hill-Lewis.

Born in 1945 in the historic District Six, Solomon experienced the trauma of apartheid-era displacement firsthand, an experience that fuelled her lifelong commitment to justice.

Her leadership came to the fore when she was elected Mayor of Cape Town from 1996 to 1998, a crucial time during the city's transition into democracy.

“As a mother, activist, and leader, she demonstrated how compassion and courage could create tangible change,” said Hill-Lewis.

Beyond her role as mayor, Solomon also served South Africa with distinction on the international stage as High Commissioner to both Tanzania and Canada.

The Mitchells Plain Development Action Collective (MPDAC) said it mourned the passing of Solomon, aged 79, a mother, grandmother, community leader, a diplomat and founder member of MPDAC. 

“Fondly known as ‘Com T’ or ‘T’, born in 1945, Theresa dedicated her life to the struggle for justice and equality,” MPDAC said.

The Solomon family moved to Woodlands in 1979 where she was involved in numerous campaigns such as the bus boycott, advocating for a school in Tafelsig and opposing rent increases.

Solomon was instrumental in community activism with the establishment of the Leadwood Creche and the Woodlands People's Centre.

“Solomon went on to become Cape Town's first black female Mayor and later served as South Africa's Ambassador to Canada as well as a term as Ambassador to Tanzania.”

“MPDAC conveys our deepest sympathy to her family, friends and comrades. Your loss is our loss. Rest well, daughter of the soil, we salute your tireless dedication and commitment to building a better community and country.”

Molo Songololo director Patric Solomons described Solomon as a “true people’s champion”.

“Condolences to her family, friends, people of Mitchell's Plain and South Africa. A community leader, anti-Apartheid activist, first black mayor of Cape Town and diplomat... she made a life-long commitment to fight for freedom and justice. She will be dearly missed. I am saddened by her passing and the loss of another giant of our struggle for liberation.”

Cape Times