Qunu Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Qunu
Qunu village
Qunu Location in Eastern Cape Show map of Eastern Cape Qunu Location in South Africa Show map of South Africa
Country	South Africa
Province	Eastern Cape
District	O.R. Tambo
Municipality	King Sabata Dalindyebo
Area
• Total	1.65 km² (0.64 sq mi)
Population (2001)
• Total	213
• Density	129.1/km² (334.3/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+2 (SAST)
PO box	5105

Qunu is a small, rural village in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is a Xhosa village, located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of the city of Mthatha. You can find it along the N2 national road.

Nelson Mandela's Connection to Qunu
- Mandela's Childhood in Qunu
- Mandela's Return and Burial
  - Family Burial Site
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See also

Nelson Mandela's Connection to Qunu

Qunu is famous because it was home to Nelson Mandela, a very important leader and former President of South Africa. He was born in a nearby village called Mvezo, next to the Mbhashe River.

Mandela's Childhood in Qunu

Nelson Mandela grew up in Qunu. His father was a chief in Mvezo, but he was removed from his position. After this, the family moved to Qunu. Mandela later wrote in his book, Long Walk to Freedom, that Qunu was where he had the happiest times as a child.

Mandela's Return and Burial

After he retired from being president, Nelson Mandela chose to return to Qunu. He wanted to live there again. On December 15, 2013, Nelson Mandela was laid to rest in Qunu. His burial took place on his family's land, in a spot he had chosen himself. This followed a special state funeral.

Family Burial Site

The remains of four of Mandela's children were originally buried in Qunu. For a time, one of his grandsons, Mandla Mandela, moved these remains to Mvezo. However, in July 2013, a court in the Eastern Cape decided that the remains should be moved back to Qunu. They were then returned to their original burial place.