Theresa's life of activism and leadership in South Africa

"She will be remembered for her courage, humility, and love for the people of South Africa," her family said in a statement.

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Expressing the City's condolences, Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said Ms Solomon will be remembered for her dedication to justice and activism, which brought about meaningful change, especially on the Cape Flats.

Mayor Hill-Lewis said she played a pivotal role in establishing civic organisations to campaign for amenities in the wake of forced removals in the 1970's, including schools, hospitals, and police stations.

"As a mother, activist, and leader, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations," he added.

Ms Solomon's family said the struggle veteran was especially loved by the people of Mitchell's Plain, where she lived and worked during the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

Mr Thuynsma described Ms Solomon as a community leader of the highest quality who dealt with the challenges that a new Mitchell’s Plain presented like a true mother.

"She ensured that there are schools for the children of a new Mitchell’s Plain, fighting especially for schools in Tafelsig.

"She fought for the council (City of Cape Town) to allow people to pay their municipal bills by month-end, unlike the middle of the month, as it was then and is now again. She fought for a general hospital for Mitchells Plain, and today we have one.

"All this she fought under Woodlands Residence Association, an affiliate of Mitchell’s Plain Coordinating Committee (a United Democratic Front affiliate), which she was the secretary of," he said.

Mr Thuynsma said Ms Solomon was an active Cape Area Housing Action Committee (CAHAC) member who lobbied for decent housing for everyone.

"She was at one stage chairperson of the Mitchell’s Plain community police forum and joint chairperson of the Mitchells Plain reconstruction and development programme (RDP) forum until she entered Council as mayor