Many may not realize that Sally Mugabe, the wife of Zimbabwe’s former President Robert Mugabe, was a proud Fante woman from Ghana.
Known affectionately as the “Mother of the Land,” her influence extended beyond Zimbabwe and into the global arena.
Early Life and Education
Born Sarah Francesca Hayfron in 1931 in the Gold Coast (now Ghana), Sally was raised during a time of significant change in British colonial Africa.
She attended Achimota School and later pursued higher education, eventually qualifying as a teacher.
Meeting Robert Mugabe
Sally met her future husband, Robert Mugabe, while both were teaching at Takoradi Teacher Training College in Ghana.
They married in April 1961 in Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), marking the beginning of their lifelong partnership.
Political Activism and Imprisonment
A trained teacher and independent political activist, Sally Hayfron began her activism as early as 1962, mobilizing African women to challenge the Southern Rhodesian constitution.
Her efforts led to her arrest and a sedition charge, resulting in a five-year prison sentence, part of which was suspended.
Exile and Continued Advocacy
In 1967, Sally went into exile in London, living in Ealing, West London. Her stay was partially funded by the British Ariel Foundation, a charity established in 1960.
During her eight years in Britain, she campaigned tirelessly for the release of political detainees in Rhodesia, including her husband, who had been imprisoned since 1964.
Tragically, their son Nhamodzenyika, born during this tumultuous period, died from malaria in Ghana in 1966, while Robert was unable to attend his burial.
Struggles for Residency
In 1970, the British Home Office attempted to deport Sally; however, Robert Mugabe petitioned Prime Minister Harold Wilson for her residency.
With support from key British ministers, she was granted permission to stay.
Return to Zimbabwe
After Robert Mugabe’s release in 1975, Sally rejoined him in Mozambique and took on a maternal role for thousands of refugees displaced by the Rhodesian Bush War.
In 1978, she was elected as ZANU-PF Deputy Secretary for the Women’s League.
First Lady of Zimbabwe
With Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, Sally quickly adapted to her new role as First Lady.
She officially became the First Lady when Robert Mugabe was inaugurated as Zimbabwe’s second President in 1987.
Legacy and Remembrance
Sally Mugabe passed away on January 27, 1992, due to kidney failure and was laid to rest at the National Heroes’ Acre in Harare.
She is fondly remembered as a founding mother of Zimbabwe, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and dedication to her people.
Her story is not just one of personal triumph but also reflects the broader narrative of Fante influence and heritage that resonates across borders.
Sally Mugabe’s life exemplifies the strength of women leaders and their pivotal roles in shaping nations.