| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary de Haas |
| Age | 82 years old (2025) |
| Tribe | Not publicly disclosed |
| Nationality | South African |
| Profession | Social scientist, activist, human rights defender |
| Qualifications | Registered social worker, MSocSci Anthropology (cum laude) |
| Husband | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Not disclosed |
| Known For | Human rights activism, violence monitoring, advocacy in KwaZulu-Natal |
| Contact Details | Not publicly disclosed |
Who Is Mary de Haas?
Mary de Haas is widely known in South Africa as a fearless voice for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights. For more than four decades, she has been a leading figure in activism, violence monitoring, and political advocacy—especially in KwaZulu-Natal, one of the regions historically affected by political conflict and community unrest.
Her work spans social science research, community protection, institutional accountability, and advocacy for vulnerable groups. Through her writings, field reports, and activism, she has challenged powerful institutions and given ordinary citizens the confidence to speak out.
Mary de Haas is not just a human rights advocate; she is one of the country’s most respected social researchers whose impact continues to shape conversations about justice and social welfare.
Early Life and Background
Mary de Haas was born and raised in South Africa, where she developed a strong sense of compassion and fairness. Her early environment exposed her to social challenges that shaped her interest in justice, family welfare, and the everyday struggles of ordinary people.
Details about her tribe, ethnic background, and childhood remain private—as she has always maintained a clear boundary between her public activism and personal life.
Education and Professional Qualifications
One of the defining strengths of Mary de Haas is her solid academic background. She is a qualified and registered social worker, and her passion for understanding communities and human relationships led her to further her studies.
She obtained her Master of Social Science (MSocSci) in Anthropology, graduating cum laude from the University of Natal (now the University of KwaZulu-Natal). Her postgraduate research focused on African marriage and divorce, which gave her deep insights into cultural dynamics, family systems, and community structures.
Her academic knowledge became the foundation of her later activism, allowing her to analyze social issues with depth and credibility.
Career: Social Worker, Researcher, Activist
1. Social Work and Early Professional Life
Before entering the public spotlight, Mary worked in several important social welfare roles:
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Marriage and family therapy with FAMSA in Durban
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Principal of a children’s home in Durban
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Advocate for family welfare, child protection, and trauma support
These early experiences put her face-to-face with the realities of violence, poverty, and inequality—issues that later shaped her life’s mission.
2. Transition to Research and Human Rights Advocacy
Over time, Mary de Haas became more involved in:
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Violence monitoring
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Political conflict research
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Human rights documentation
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Community advocacy in KwaZulu-Natal
Her reports, interviews, and field assessments became essential resources for journalists, researchers, and public institutions.
3. A Leading Voice in South Africa’s Human Rights Landscape
For decades, Mary has:
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Exposed patterns of violence and abuse
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Questioned the actions of police and political figures
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Fought for transparency in government
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Offered guidance to families affected by unrest
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Participated in national conversations on justice and public safety
Her activism has earned her respect both locally and internationally.
Latest News About Mary de Haas (2025)
Mary de Haas continues to play an active role in public accountability.
On 18 November 2025, she appeared before the Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations against the KwaZulu-Natal SAPS Provincial Head, Lt. Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The session took place at:
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Venue: Committee Room M46, Marks Building, Parliament
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Time: 11:00
This appearance reinforces her long-standing reputation as someone who is never afraid to present evidence, challenge authority, and defend the public interest.
As always, the meeting was open to the media and the public, following South Africa’s commitment to transparent parliamentary processes.
Age
As of 2025, Mary de Haas is 82 years old.
Her advanced age has not slowed down her activism or her willingness to engage in public affairs.
Husband
Mary de Haas does not publicly share information about her husband or marital life.
She has consistently separated her private life from her activism.
Therefore, any details about her husband remain undisclosed.
Tribe
There is no public record confirming her tribe or ethnic background.
She has chosen to keep these aspects of her identity private.
Net Worth
Her net worth is not disclosed, and she has no public financial declarations.
Given her long career in activism, research, and social work, she is not known to focus on wealth or luxury.
Why Mary de Haas Matters
Mary de Haas represents a rare blend of:
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Academic excellence
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Community understanding
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Public courage
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Human rights commitment
Her work has helped countless families, informed national debates, and pushed institutions toward greater accountability.
Whether through research, activism, or public testimony, she has consistently fought for:
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human dignity
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justice
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transparency
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the protection of vulnerable people
Her influence continues to shape the future of human rights in South Africa.
FAQs About Mary de Haas
1. How old is Mary de Haas?
She is 82 years old as of 2025.
2. What are her qualifications?
She is a registered social worker and holds an MSocSci in Anthropology (cum laude).
3. Is Mary de Haas married?
Details about her husband are not publicly disclosed.
4. What tribe is Mary de Haas from?
Her tribe is not disclosed.
5. What is Mary de Haas’ net worth?
Her net worth is not publicly known.
6. What is she best known for?
She is famous for human rights activism, violence monitoring, and social justice advocacy.
7. What is the latest news about her?
She appeared before the Ad Hoc Parliamentary Committee on 18 November 2025 to present new evidence regarding allegations involving the KZN SAPS Provincial Head.
Conclusion
Mary de Haas stands as one of South Africa’s strongest voices for justice and human rights. Her journey—from a young social worker to a nationally respected researcher and activist—highlights her dedication to truth, fairness, and the defense of ordinary citizens.
Even at 82, she remains fully engaged in public discussions, providing insights that continue to influence national policy and community awareness. Her work is a reminder that one person, armed with knowledge and courage, can make a lasting impact.
