ALBERTINA Sisulu was the true mother of the nation and made her home "a womb" where she nurtured future leaders of this nation and those who have now ascended to top ANC positions must not let her down.

This was the message conveyed to family, friends and fellow comrades of the Sisulu family at the memorial service of the ANC stalwart at Johannesburg City Hall yesterday.

"She created a womb for the downtrodden and oppressed to hide in, to feel the warmth of her character, her spirit and peaceful and dignified resistance," said ANC treasurer-general, Mathews Phosa.

He said: "If anyone ever deserved the title of Mother of the Nation, it was Albertina Sisulu."

Phosa described Sisulu as "someone who went through all the pain and hurt of apartheid herself, but never allowed it to diminish her bravery and integrity.

"Let us never forget that she was banned for almost two decades, and as a result of that banning, had almost lost her much-treasured ability to look after her children and family.

"During that time she never lost her charm, her dignity, and her ability to inspire each and every person that she came into contact with," Phosa said.

Gauteng ANC chairperson Paul Mashatile said when he was with Sisulu two weeks ago, she was informed that he was now a minister. She said to him and others: "My children I am proud of you. We must carry on and strengthen a united ANC," Mashatile said.

He reminded some of Gauteng mayors and MECs at the service that "Sisulu gave you a vote of confidence to change people's lives for the better."

Mashatile said when the ANC celebrates its centenary next year, members should be able to say: "We will walk in your footsteps and the ANC will not fail because we have been taught by the best."

National and provincial leaders of ANC Youth League, Women's League, Cosatu, SACP and Umkhonto we Sizwe Veterans Association also gave words of support to the Sisulu family and ANC.