inspirational essay on nelson mandela

Nelson Mandela: an inspirational life

Madela will be remembered for his struggle and leadership for freedom, equality, truth, love, peace and justice. He inspired many of us through his life, struggle, words and deeds, as he walked the walk as well as talking the talk Nelson Mandela, also known as Madiba, the great South African and world leader, was many things to those who knew or came to learn of him, but even more for those who care about the things he was so passionate about. He will be remembered for his struggle and leadership for freedom , equality, truth, love, peace and justice. He inspired many of us through his life, struggle, words and deeds, as he walked the walk as well as talking the talk, unlike many compatriots who manipulate similar ideals for self-aggrandisement.

As I posted with grief on my Facebook wall upon learning of the demise of this iconic leader, Mandela inspired me to take the path of the law – to seek justice and to speak truth to power whatever it takes. Madiba was a genius architect of the modern day transitional justice approach which ushered South Africa into a new dawn. His foresighted leadership of the African National Congress during the negotiations to end apartheid enabled South Africa to transition from a brutal apartheid era into a multi-racial constitutional democracy which guarantees the rights of the majority without subjugating the minority.

Following his release from prison and during the peace talks with the apartheid regime, Mandela is quoted to have assured President de Klerk that “I know we cannot defeat you militarily, but rest assured that you cannot kill us all.” He accepted an amnesty for the majority of the brutal apartheid system and its beneficiaries but in exchange demanded a credible institutional reform to guarantee inclusive governance. He established a credible truth seeking and reconciliation commission (TRC) to document and clarify the nature and extent of the apartheid legacy. The TRC initiated a limited conditional amnesty for perpetrators willing to tell the truth and seek forgiveness – even though those who took part were mainly in jail.  He promulgated a progressive constitution backed by an independent constitutional court and initiated a number of reforms and affirmative action programmes to benefit the victims and survivors of apartheid.

Our greatest challenge is a lack of visionary leaders who can seize the opportunity to reckon with the past in a credible and inclusive process that lays the foundations for peace, justice and reconciliation, to guarantee fairness and non-recurrence. For all its shortcomings, the South African experience in transition was nothing short of a miracle. The realisation of the rainbow nation remains a work in progress but there is no doubt, as many commentators have said, that Madiba laid firm foundations upon which current and future generations in South Africa can build. Many African countries, including my native Uganda, are trapped in their past: of cyclical violence, unaddressed conflict legacies and continuing marginalisation, human rights abuses and violations, but with no idea of how to move forward. Our greatest challenge is a lack of visionary leaders who can seize the opportunity to reckon with the past in a credible and inclusive process that lays the foundations for peace, justice and reconciliation, to guarantee fairness and non-recurrence.

In 1995, as a primary school leaver, I was hunting birds in my neighbourhood, in Obolokume village, Koro Kal, Gulu district when I saw Mzee Angelo Banya, a renounced Democratic Party Stalwart, reading the newspaper under his veranda. Mzee Banya was a symbol of progress and political struggle in my own village, and he too is an inspiration to join politics beyond party lines. He had travelled far and wide around the globe and attained the highest level of education. When I greeted him, the old man asked me what I was doing and why I had not gone to school. I replied: “I have finished Primary Seven and am waiting for my results.” He asked: so what next after Primary Seven? I told him that I didn't really know, but “I think after results come out, I will join either a technical school or a Primary Teachers college and become a mechanic or teacher.” My rationale being my own financial calculation but, equally they were the only role models available.

Then I sat down near him, picked up a newspaper and in the first page was a story on Nelson Mandela and a recollection of his statements during the opening of his defence at the Rivonia trial on Monday, April 20, 1964 . He had been convicted for treason and sentenced to life imprisonment. I read with interest about his background, struggle, determination and the fight for justice, democracy and equality, and was inspired.

Today, I mourn Mandela with fond memories. His inspiration offers me hope and life, with ideals for which I am prepared to die. Thank you Madiba, and Rest in Peace. I told Mzee Banya: you know what? I want to be a lawyer, like Nelson Mandela. He asked me why. My answer to him was to tell him to listen to this inspirational statement, and I read a quote from Mandela’s testimony: “I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I’ve cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”

I asked Banya whether I could keep the newspaper and he agreed. I folded it up and read it again and again whenever I was resting during my hunting expeditions.  I then posted the paper on the wall of my grass thatch hut until it got burnt down by the Lord’s Resistance Army in 1999. 

By this time, I was completing my Senior Four exams. I knew I would become a lawyer and work for peace and justice. With the brutality and atrocities of both the LRA and government forces against my people in northern Uganda at the time, I knew the context was different but deep insight me, I was already inspired and had found a career path with ideals to live for.

Today, I mourn Mandela with fond memories. His inspiration offers me hope and life, with ideals for which I am prepared to die. Thank you Madiba, and Rest in Peace.

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8 Ways Nelson Mandela Changed the World

Today marks Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday, and we’re joining people around the world who are celebrating the life, achievements, and legacy of the former South African leader. Mandela’s impact on his people, his country, and the world as a whole has been far too vast to measure, though it has also been too important to leave untried. Here are eight ways Nelson Mandela used his life to change the world forever.

1. From the beginning, Mandela knew that a single person could be a catalyst for change. He wasn’t afraid to be that catalyst.

Mandela was born in 1918 in a small village in the Transkei, then a British territory in what is now South Africa. He would go on to lead a nation, change lives, and inspire countless people along the way. While he was only one man, Mandela shaped a better world through his own initiative.

Mandela formed and joined many organizations and alliances during his lifetime and continues to be a symbol of the power that one individual has to make a difference. Almost every personal and professional road he traveled—whether that road meant establishing the first black law firm in South Africa, forming the African National Congress Youth League, or refusing a pardon due to continued injustice—was a brave and powerful example of the long journey to freedom.

As Mandela put it, “ There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

2. He refused to give up on his cause and his country.

Fewer images in history are more powerful than that of Nelson Mandela, fist raised in a dignified grey suit, walking after his release from 27 years of imprisonment. Mandela was only 44 years old when he was given a life sentence by the apartheid regime for his leadership of the African National Congress, an organization outlawed by the government for its anti-apartheid actions and positions.

Mandela was first arrested on treason charges just four years after starting South Africa’s first black law firm and working with others calling for a nonracial state in the country. He would later be acquitted of these charges, only to be arrested yet again in 1962 for his work as a leader within the African National Congress.

3. Mandela set an example of dedication, courage, and sacrifice for all.

During his trial, Mandela refused to defend himself in order to not legitimize the charges levied against him.

In 1985, the government offered to release Mandela under the conditions that he would not engage in political activities once free. Nelson refused. “I cannot and will not give any undertaking at a time when I and you, the people, are not free,” he said. “Your freedom and mine cannot be separated.”

4. He knew that his struggle was his people’s, as his people’s struggle was his. But Mandela opened that struggle and his message of justice to the world.

In the mid-1980s, the world slowly awakened to the suffering of South Africans under apartheid rule. And while Mandela suffered behind bars, his message had never been louder. As anti-apartheid rallies grew, so did awareness of Mandela’s struggle for freedom for black South Africans. His message was so powerful that a protest song named “Free Nelson Mandela,” written and performed by the ska band The Special AKA after attending such a rally, became a top ten hit in the UK, and a legendary anthem worldwide.

Mandela’s message was one of peace, justice and freedom, an inclusive campaign that all people could support. He set the precedent for messaging and rallying for future activists to come.

5. He set up a foundation in order to secure that his work for justice and peace could continue.

Founded in 1999, the Nelson Mandela Foundation is the legacy that Mandela has left behind. The organization focuses on what was central to Mandela’s work: justice, dialogue, and social cohesion. Just as Mandela did so successfully in South Africa, the foundation “aims to use the history, experience, values, vision and leadership of its Founder to provide a non-partisan platform for public discourse on important social issues, and in doing so, to contribute to policy decision-making.” The foundation hopes that by providing people and politics with the relevant tools, the public can have informed discussions that lead to justice and freedom for all.

6. Mandela delivered a groundbreaking speech for the fight against HIV/AIDS at a crucial time for South Africans.

In 2000, a quarter of South African citizens between the ages of 15- and 45-years old tested positive for HIV/AIDS. In a time and place with four million infected people and incalculable stigma, Nelson Mandela called for bold new measures to be taken in the fight against AIDS.

While he regretted not doing enough while he was in office, Nelson Mandela single-handedly set a new agenda for the future fight against HIV/AIDS with a groundbreaking speech in 2000 at an International AIDS conference in Durban.

Combined with his public meeting with the revolutionary South African HIV/AIDS activist Zackie Achmat in 2002 and his relentless engagement with the fight through the later years of his life, Nelson Mandela was a devoted advocate for HIV+ South Africans all the way up until his death in 2013.

7. He understood that while it is important to forgive, history must never forget its troubled past.

Nelson Mandela sought remembrance, rather than revenge, in response to injustices under Apartheid rule. He understood that the key to moving forward as a nation was understanding and learning from its troubled past. That’s why one of Mandela’s first actions as president of South Africa was to set up a Committee for Truth and Reconciliation, a governmental agency dedicated to investigating crimes committed under apartheid from 1960 to 1994.

The program is a beacon for human rights volition investigators everywhere, and stands as a shining example as a guide for healing from past atrocities and unifying divided peoples.

8. Mandela channeled his childhood lessons of Ubuntu, and gave those values to the world.

At his core, this was Nelson Mandela’s mission, and its story goes back all the way to his days as a child in that small African village. Ubuntu is the Xhosa idea that there is a oneness to all people. An impenetrable tie that binds us all to one another. A principle stating that conflict amongst people is temporary, only a brief diversion from the natural order of our true nature as human beings: togetherness. Mandela took this belief to heart, and with it shaped the world around him, believing that strength will overcome strife and refusing to be cynical.

As Barack Obama said during Mandela’s eulogy:

“Ubuntu, a word that captures Mandela’s greatest gift: His recognition that we are all bound together in ways that are invisible to the eye; that there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us. . . . He not only embodied Ubuntu, he taught millions to find that truth within themselves.”

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Essay on Nelson Mandela: 10 Lines, Inspirational Short, Long Essays And Fascinating Facts

This article is a comprehensive hub for students to learn about nelson mandela. you can find facts, short and long essays on nelson mandela. nelson mandela international day is globally observed on july 18 every year. .

Every year Nelson Mandela International Day is observed on July 18 to honour the life of Nelson Mandela. This day is commemorated with the aim to remind people of the values and principles of Mandela’s life. Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid revolutionary and the first democratically elected president of South Africa. His contribution and devotion to the cause of freedom from apartheid is etched in history. Read the article to get 10 lines, short and long essays and facts on Nelson Mandela. 

In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day to ‘’recognize Mandela’s values, his dedication to humanity, protection of human rights, promotion of social justice, promotion of peace and contribution to struggle for democracy’’. 

Nelson Mandela International Day 2024: Theme 

10 lines on nelson mandela , short essay on nelson mandela in 150-200 words .

Born in 1918 in South Africa, Nelson Mandela devoted his life to fight against apartheid. Apartheid was the system of racial segregation and discrimination against the non-white people. Mandela was born into a tribal royal family. He studied law at the University of Witwatersrand. 

He became a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement. For his relentless struggle against apartheid, Mandela was awarded with imprisonment for 27 years. During his imprisonment, the support for him grew among the black people and other nations started to condemn the practice of discrimination. 

In 1990 Mandela was released from prison. He became the nation’s first democratically elected and black president in 1994. During his presidency, he introduced measures to improve the life conditions of black people. He promoted the values of justice and equality. Mandela emphasised on unity and forgiveness. Under his leadership, a democratic constitution was adopted in 1996. 

His presidency focused on efforts to unite a divided nation. Mandela spent his life advocating for social justice and human rights. His work gained him extraordinary love and respect from not just his countrymen but from other communities as well. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993. He died in 2013. 

Long Essay on Nelson Mandela in 300-500 words 

Nelson Mandela, or Madiba, as he was called by his followers, was a prominent figure in the apartheid movement in South Africa. His life was spent in fighting for equality and freedom for the black people. Even today he is considered to be a global icon for peace and justice. Mandela was born in 1918 in a village in South Africa. He was the son of a tribal chieftain. 

During that time the nation was trapped in the chains of apartheid, or racial segregation. The system of apartheid called for discrimination against the black community. This meant that the non-white people were required to live in areas separate from the white people. The black people were supposed to use separate public facilities. 

Growing up, Mandela witnessed how deeply the injustice was entrenched in the society and in people’s minds. He gradually became aware of the discriminatory policies of the government. He studied law and later joined the African National Congress (ANC). As a member of this organisation, Mandela continued to oppose the policies of those in power. 

One such policy was the pass laws, under which the non-white people were mandated to carry documents to be present in the places that the government had reserved for the white people. It is worth noting that Mandela championed non-violent means of resistance. His activism soon caught the attention of the government and he was banned/arrested several times. 

The banning of the ANC and the suppression of peaceful protests forced Mandela to give up non-violence and turn to armed struggle. He even trained in guerilla warfare. In 1963, Mandela and others were tried in the Rivonia trial. This trial was called the trial that changed South Africa. Mandela gave a three hour long speech standing in the dock. His speech ‘Why I am prepared to die’ became one of the most famous speeches in history. 

Mandela spent an arduous time of 27 years in imprisonment. Despite living in harsh conditions, he continued to emerge as a symbol of peace and hope. His imprisonment was condemned by people. He was finally released in 1990. His release brought the hope for the end of apartheid and the beginning of equal rights for all. 

Due to his steadfast commitment, the first democratic election was held in 1994 and Mandela became South Africa’s first black president. During his presidency, he focused on uniting the divided nation. He established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which undertook the task of investigating the cases of human rights violations during apartheid. 

Mandela is recognised globally as an icon of peace and reconciliation. His contribution to humanity, protection of human rights and equality for all groups is celebrated on his birthday as Nelson Mandela International Day. Throughout his life, Mandela lived by the values of forgiveness and compassion. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. 

Interesting Facts About Nelson Mandela

• Mandela founded the 4664 foundation to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS.

On this Nelson Mandela International Day, take a pledge to fight for peace and justice!

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When and where was Nelson Mandela born?

When did nelson mandela die, what is nelson mandela known for, to whom was nelson mandela married, what publications did nelson mandela write.

Nelson Mandela

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• Official Site of the Nelson Mandela Foundation
• The Elders - Nelson Mandela
• South African History Online - Biography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
• The Nobel Prize - Biography of Nelson Mandela
• Nelson Mandela - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
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• Table Of Contents

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, also known as Madiba, was born Rolihlahla Mandela on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa; the name Nelson was later added by one of his teachers. His father, the chief of the Madiba clan of the Xhosa -speaking Tembu people, died when Nelson was still young, and he was raised by Jongintaba, the regent of the Tembu. Although Nelson had a claim to the chieftainship, he renounced it in order to become a lawyer.

Nelson Mandela died on December 5, 2013, in Johannesburg . He was 95 years old. After his death was announced, his life was remembered and celebrated in South Africa as well as around the world. Numerous memorial services were held, including one by the South African government on December 10. He was laid to rest at Qunu, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, on December 15.

Nelson Mandela is known for several things, but perhaps he is best known for successfully leading the resistance to South Africa’s policy of apartheid in the 20th century, during which he was infamously incarcerated at Robben Island Prison (1964–82). He won the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993, along with South Africa’s president at the time, F.W. de Klerk , for having led the transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy. Mandela is also known for being the first black president of South Africa, serving from 1994 to 1999.

Nelson Mandela had three wives: Evelyn Ntoko Mase (1944–58); Winnie Madikizela-Mandela (1958–96), who was also a noteworthy anti- apartheid champion; and Graça Machel (1998–2013), who was the widow of Samora Machel , former president of Mozambique (1975–86), and was Mandela’s wife at the time of his death in 2013.

Nelson Mandela’s writings included I Am Prepared to Die (1964; rev. ed. 1986); No Easy Walk to Freedom (1965; updated ed. 2002); The Struggle Is My Life (1978; rev. ed. 1990); In His Own Words (2003); and Long Walk to Freedom (1994), which chronicles his early life and years in prison. Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years (2017), released posthumously, is the unfinished draft of his second volume of memoirs; it was completed by Mandla Langa.

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Nelson Mandela (born July 18, 1918, Mvezo, South Africa—died December 5, 2013, Johannesburg) was a Black nationalist and the first Black president of South Africa (1994–99). His negotiations in the early 1990s with South African Pres. F.W. de Klerk helped end the country’s apartheid system of racial segregation and ushered in a peaceful transition to majority rule. Mandela and de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993 for their efforts.

Nelson Mandela was the son of Chief Henry Mandela of the Madiba clan of the Xhosa-speaking Tembu people. After his father’s death, young Nelson was raised by Jongintaba, the regent of the Tembu. Nelson renounced his claim to the chieftainship to become a lawyer. He attended South African Native College (later the University of Fort Hare) and studied law at the University of the Witwatersrand; he later passed the qualification exam to become a lawyer. In 1944 he joined the African National Congress (ANC), a Black-liberation group, and became a leader of its Youth League. That same year he met and married Evelyn Ntoko Mase. Mandela subsequently held other ANC leadership positions, through which he helped revitalize the organization and oppose the apartheid policies of the ruling National Party .

In 1952 in Johannesburg , with fellow ANC leader Oliver Tambo , Mandela established South Africa’s first Black law practice, specializing in cases resulting from the post-1948 apartheid legislation. Also that year, Mandela played an important role in launching a campaign of defiance against South Africa’s pass laws, which required nonwhites to carry documents (known as passes, pass books, or reference books) authorizing their presence in areas that the government deemed “restricted” (i.e., generally reserved for the white population). He traveled throughout the country as part of the campaign, trying to build support for nonviolent means of protest against the discriminatory laws. In 1955 he was involved in drafting the Freedom Charter , a document calling for nonracial social democracy in South Africa.

Mandela’s antiapartheid activism made him a frequent target of the authorities. Starting in 1952, he was intermittently banned (severely restricted in travel, association, and speech). In December 1956 he was arrested with more than 100 other people on charges of treason that were designed to harass antiapartheid activists. Mandela went on trial that same year and eventually was acquitted in 1961. During the extended court proceedings, he divorced his first wife and married Nomzamo Winifred Madikizela ( Winnie Madikizela-Mandela ).

After the massacre of unarmed Black South Africans by police forces at Sharpeville in 1960 and the subsequent banning of the ANC, Mandela abandoned his nonviolent stance and began advocating acts of sabotage against the South African regime. He went underground (during which time he became known as the Black Pimpernel for his ability to evade capture) and was one of the founders of Umkhonto we Sizwe (“Spear of the Nation”), the military wing of the ANC. In 1962 he went to Algeria for training in guerrilla warfare and sabotage, returning to South Africa later that year. On August 5, shortly after his return, Mandela was arrested at a road block in Natal ; he was subsequently sentenced to five years in prison.

In October 1963 the imprisoned Mandela and several other men were tried for sabotage, treason, and violent conspiracy in the infamous Rivonia Trial, named after a fashionable suburb of Johannesburg where raiding police had discovered quantities of arms and equipment at the headquarters of the underground Umkhonto we Sizwe. Mandela’s speech from the dock, in which he admitted the truth of some of the charges made against him, was a classic defense of liberty and defiance of tyranny . (His speech garnered international attention and acclaim and was published later that year as I Am Prepared to Die .) On June 12, 1964, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, narrowly escaping the death penalty .

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7 Reasons Why Nelson Mandela Was a Great Leader

By: Matshona Dhliwayo

Nelson Mandela, or “Madiba,” as he was affectionately known, is arguably the most famous African.  A man who gave so much for his people, even his harshest critics agree he was irrefutably an extraordinary man.

But, what made him stand out from numerous other statesmen around the world?  Why is he immortalized while many of his contemporaries, even some who arguably achieved more, have slipped into the dustbin of history?  After studying him rigorously, below are seven reasons why he was a remarkable leader:

• Self-sacrifice — A Messiah-like figure to his people, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years of his precious life in prison on Robben Island, hammering on rocks in the scorching heat during the day, only to retire to a tiny eight-by-seven-foot concrete cell with only a straw mat to sleep on. When he was offered freedom in 1985, he refused, saying: “I cannot and will not give any undertaking, at a time when I and you, the people, are not free.  Your freedom and mine cannot be separated!”
• Compassion — It is easy to forgive a stranger, and easier to forgive a friend, but how difficult it is to forgive an enemy. Nelson Mandela forgave his greatest adversary, the Apartheid government, which not only caused tremendous suffering to himself and his family but also to his countrymen.  He could have demanded the heads of those who murdered thousands of innocent indigenous South Africans, but he chose the higher route instead.  Setting up the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, he left a legacy of forgiveness and reconciliation, not only for his people but also for the world.
• Ethical — In today’s increasingly competitive world, people care less about how you acquire money, power, and wealth, just as long as you amass them. Mandela, on the other hand, put people and honor before worldly gain.  At a time when most African presidents were corruptly amassing fortunes during their tenures, Mandela’s estate was roughly just US $2.9 million.  And, he not only left money for his family but for his staff as well.
• He Was a Servant — He focused on the needs of others, not his own, listening to those who society had ignored and sought out those who society had cast away. He served the poor and the rich; he served the educated and the illiterate.  There is no one Mandela did not care for.  He saw everyone as his brother and sister—even his enemies.  While rulers all over the world were busy empowering themselves and their friends, he was busy empowering his people.
• He Was Human — The media put him on a pedestal, classifying him as an infallible saint—an incorrigible angel who could do no wrong. He became a man of mythical proportions to many in Africa and all over the world.  The reality, however, was far from it; Mandela himself never denied his humanity, given to the same weaknesses as everyone else.  His first marriage broke down, and so did his second; he was unable to balance being a leader in the home and in the nation.  He also failed to raise the kind of children befitting a man of his nobility.  He said in an interview, “My first task when I came out was to destroy that myth that I was something other than an ordinary human being.”  In the end, although disappointing, people were still drawn to him.  In fact, his humanity made him even more appealing.

In addition to all of the tips above, below are 15 leadership insights extracted from my books to help you become a great leader too.  

• A hunter’s meal is in proportion to his skill.
• If you follow the herd, people may mistake you for a cow.
• One who fishes in shallow waters limits the kind of fish he can catch.
• If you feed a bird, you don’t have to force it to come to you.
• Don’t waste time watering a weed hoping to transform it into a flower.
• The sun does not rise abruptly but perseveres until it rules the sky.
• A lion does not earn its crown quarreling with sheep.
• S tand alone when it is to your benefit, with others when it is to your advantage, and with everyone when it is to your empowerment.
• An army of disciplined sheep is greater than an army of undisciplined wolves.
• Don’t poison a river whose fish you might need tomorrow.
• Fortune hides behind the action.
• A bee does not need to follow you to give you honey: you follow it. Become a person of value, and you too won’t have to beg anyone to follow you.
• If an eagle is teaching you to fly, ignore the advice of turkeys.
• An ambitious wolf will rise above a complacent lion.
• A shark does not ask for permission to rule the waters.

south africa

5 great stories about nelson mandela’s humility, kindness and courage.

Remarkable moments recalled by some of the people who knew him best

Following the news of the passing of Nelson Mandela at the age of 95, millions of people in South Africa and around the world have been in mourning. His image, writes Rick Stengel , TIME’s former managing editor and collaborator with Mandela on Mandela’s 1993 autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom , “has become a kind of fairy tale: he is the last noble man, a figure of heroic achievement.” The many tributes pouring in from world leaders are testament to those achievements. But it is the memories shared over the years by some of the people who knew him and those who only had brief encounters that best illustrate the kind of man Mandela was.

ANC’s, South Africa’s governing political party, Deputy Secretary-General Jessie Duarte , who was his personal assistant between 1990-94:

“He always made his own bed, no matter where we traveled. I remember we were in Shanghai, in a very fancy hotel, and the Chinese hospitality requires that the person who cleans your room and provides you with your food, does exactly that. If you do it for yourself, it could even be regarded as an insult. So in Shanghai I tried to say to him, ‘Please don’t make your own bed, because there’s this custom here.’ And he said, ‘Call them, bring them to me.’ So I did. I asked the hotel manager to bring the ladies who would be cleaning the room, so that he could explain why he himself has to make his own bed, and that they not feel insulted. He didn’t ever want to hurt people’s feelings. He never really cared about what great big people think of him, but he did care about what small people thought of him.”

South African photographer, Steve Bloom , whose father, Harry Bloom was a political activist:

During the 1950s my parents, who were anti-apartheid activists, knew Nelson Mandela. I remember the story he told them about the occasion he saw a white woman standing next to her broken car in Johannesburg. He approached her and offered to help. After fiddling with the engine he fixed the car. Thankful for his help, she offered to pay him sixpence. “Oh no, that’s not necessary,” he said, “I am only too happy to help.” “But why else would you, a black man, have done that if you did not want money?” she asked quizzically. “Because you were stranded at the side of the road,” he replied.

Neville Alexander , a political activist who spent ten years imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Mandela, describes his first meeting with him:

“I was impressed mainly by the warmth and the genuine interest, which was a feature that, subsequently I discovered, is very much part of the man and something which I also must admit now, I learned from him … to give your full attention to your interlocutor, and really take notice of what people are saying, listen to them carefully. In his case, there was a spontaneous, charismatic exuding of warmth. That’s probably the most important, most vivid memory I have of our first meeting.”

Wolfie Kodesh , who hid Mandela for nearly eight weeks in 1961 in his apartment in a white suburb of Johannesburg:

“…We had a discussion and an argument about who is going to sleep where. I had a tiny flat … and I had a bed and I had a camp stretcher in a cupboard. So when I brought out the camp stretcher, I said to him, ‘Well, I’ll sleep on the camp stretcher. You sleep on the bed because you are six foot something, I am five foot something. So the stretcher is just right for me.’ No, he wasn’t going to have that. He hadn’t come there to put me out, and we had a bit of a talk about that and … it was arranged, and I would sleep on the bed.”

Rick Stengel , who spent almost two years with Mandela working on his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom :

“In 1994, during the presidential-election campaign, Mandela got on a tiny propeller plane to fly down to the killing fields of Natal and give a speech to his Zulu supporters. I agreed to meet him at the airport, where we would continue our work after his speech. When the plane was 20 minutes from landing, one of its engines failed. Some on the plane began to panic. The only thing that calmed them was looking at Mandela, who quietly read his newspaper as if he were a commuter on his morning train to the office. The airport prepared for an emergency landing, and the pilot managed to land the plane safely. When Mandela and I got in the backseat of his bulletproof BMW that would take us to the rally, he turned to me and said, “Man, I was terrified up there!””

[ Steve Bloom ]

Nelson Mandela International Day 18 July

© UN Photo/Mark Garten

Nelson Mandela showed what is possible for our world and within each one of us — if we believe, dream and work together. Let us continue each day to be inspired by his lifelong example and his call to never cease working for a better and more just world. - 2013/Former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

The United Nations Joins the World in Paying Tribute to Nelson Mandela

• Statement by the Secretary-General
• UN News — UN chief pays tribute to life and legacy of South Africa’s Nelson Mandela
• General Assembly Speical meeting dedicated to the life and memory of His Excellency Nelson Mandela. 19 Dec 2013. Full video — 3:20:42. Speakers: John W. Ashe, H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, H.E. Mr. Kingsley Mamabolo, Mr. David Dinkins, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
• Related videos on the Official UN YouTube Channel
• Photo gallery

Minute of Silence

The Security Council observes a minute of silence upon the news of the death of former South African President Nelson Mandela.

Condolence Book

432 condolence messages submitted December 2013 — April 2014.

Select Audio Clips

Select videos.

The UN marks Nelson Mandela International Day each year on 18 July. His words to the General Assembly in 1990 still resonates today.

The United Nations pays tribute to Nelson Mandela, who has died in South Africa, aged 95.

Submission is closed.

Susan December 6, 2013 at 7:06 am No words can express the loss I feel, but in spite of this, am thankful to God for giving us a true gem of our times. A man who inspired selfless love and sacrifice for his people in a humble and quiet way. Thank you for being a shining light of hope all my life. Rest in eternal peace.

Hau-etien December 8, 2013 at 8:38 pm Merci M. Mandela, depuis 1988, votre image et votre nom m’étaient familiers. Depuis 1988, vos valeurs m’ont aidé à surmonter certaines épreuves. Mon fils a appris votre nom très jeune… Et depuis trois jours, je pleure plus que pour le décès de membres de ma famille… Reposez en paix auprès des vôtres.

Mzwanele G. Mfunwa December 6, 2013 at 7:38 am Even though he physical demise was expected, as all of us will sure pass on, Madiba’s passing away was a shock. As we grew up in apartheid, living in fear, suffering, humiliation, someway in dark dungeon he and his colleagues in jail were our hope. This hope never disappeared and never disappointed when he emerged in 1990.

May he rest in peace. May those who followed in his leadership shoes learn the art of selfless serving and sacrifice. May we all renew our resolve to let no one suffer when we can do something about it. May those who bully and inflict pain, suffering and discrimination NEVER NEVER and NEVER get away with it.

I am personally greatful that some of my achievement in life have been facilited by Nelson Mandela’s struggle and personal sacrifice.

May his spirit of serving live within us forever.

Kholofelo Manaswe December 13, 2013 at 7:54 am very true. I hope our youth will take a leaf in Madiba’s tree of life.

James Mwangi December 6, 2013 at 7:54 am Dear Madiba, You have taken a bow on this world’s stage and been promoted to glory to revel in the presence of our Lord and maker. I can picture it all, you seated on a stool surrounded by those who have gone before us as you regale them with tales of your illustrious life fraught with trials and tribulations from which you emerged victorious and with renewed determination. In the words of one of my favourite hymns, “It is well with your soul” now, free from pain and any form of affliction. May your selflessness and courage continue to be a beacon of hope for the downtrodden in our struggle to be freed from all forms of discrimination and social exclusion. Even though you have ceased to be with us physically, your spirit lives on in our hearts. In the eternal words of that enduring song by Boyz To Men and Mariah Carey, “And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven, like so many friends we’ve lost along the way, and I know eventually we’ll be together, one sweet day”. May your soul rest in eternal peace Madiba, amen.

samba harouna thiam December 6, 2013 at 8:02 am Madiba, rest in peace you will continue to our inspiration ….

Shitaye Temam December 6, 2013 at 8:45 am Nelson Mandela, our role model, you passed on today but your unmatched forgiveness will live on FOREVER!! Rest in Peace!!

Janice Nduati December 6, 2013 at 8:57 am Iwork in UNIC Nairobi.

Mandela yu were an icon, a man who fought for what was right. Human rights and freedom! You have left us but you have left your people and the people of the world with peace and knowing that it was not in vain for all that you suffered for. Today, the people of South Africa are enjoying their freedom and that is what we all need to do in our life here on earth. LEAVE A MARK that is positive in peoples lives.

May the good Lord keep His family in peace at this time of mourning our Hero our icon….

Nebiyu Gossa Workineh December 6, 2013 at 9:15 am You showed us the way… you the messenger of the almighty, made us to realize the importance of compassion, selflesness and freedom. You made us know to respect others as we seek respect to ourselves by others and regardless of our race, language, relegion or culture. You the most humble, made us proud, made us to be known, to be respected through our work and values. You are the one …among the many …. you are the star, among the many who made this world to come yet together, live together and build a nation together. What a pain, what a feeling one can have to see you go away. Only one thing I ask you to do for this world from up the unknown…. please make sure the people of South Africa and that of the world need peace and god may be generious to do so. Good buy Madiba…. your sprit is both in my heart and soul. la luta continua!!!

Eshila Maravanyika December 6, 2013 at 9:20 am On behalf of UNIC Nairobi and on my own behalf, we celebrate the life of an icorn who made a massive difference fo the betterment of the people of South Africa and the world over. We mourn his passing on and send our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa. We will continue to remember “tata” everyday and through activities to mark the Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July every year. May his dear soul rest in eternal peace. “lala ngokuthula”.

Margaret Otuke December 6, 2013 at 9:35 am “Tata” – Your smile, tolerance and patience speak volumes and teach all of us a lot. The World and all Africa equally mourn and celebrate your great life. Rest in eternal peace.

Phyllis Obare December 6, 2013 at 11:05 am He fought and inspired for the liberation of our generation. He gave hope and a vision for the future. His legacy is one thats very insipring: that you don’t give up, you keep on trying’. We’ll never know when life would end. Here today and gone tomorrow… Your memories live with us. R.I.P Madiba

Xuqing Wu December 6, 2013 at 11:13 am 大上有立德，其次有立功，其次有立言，虽久不废，此之谓不朽。——《左传 襄公二十四年》 圣德如斯，惠泽被于无穷。

Bineswaree Bolaky December 6, 2013 at 12:05 pm Farewell to one of Africa’s and the World’s Greatest. RIP Mr Mandela.

Rohinee Beepur December 6, 2013 at 12:19 pm Merged with the ALMIGHTY- Will Never Be Forgotten – R.I.P xxx

Keller, Cordula December 6, 2013 at 12:29 pm I am deeply deeply saddened by the news and I extend my deepest condoleances. He was a GREAT MAN, an example for humanity. He will be missed by the whole world but although no longer amongst us we should not forget and continue what he started….. He will forever have a place in my heart and that of my family. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. May his Soul Rest in Peace. Cordula Keller (United Nations Office at Geneva)

clare December 6, 2013 at 12:42 pm May your soul rest in peace Madiba and may the good LORD comfort your loved ones….

Zziwa Raymond December 6, 2013 at 1:23 pm MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE MADIBA. You will always be missed by many.

Catherine Byrne Kaya December 6, 2013 at 1:34 pm A truly good and inspiring man who will be remembered for generations

Derrese Degefa December 6, 2013 at 3:17 pm We learned a lot from your life! Of all things, you will be remembered for being a messenger of Love for peace for all in South Africa and beyond. You really made a difference for better! If you had taken a different route other than what God directed you to do, South Africa wouldn’t have been what it is today! If we fail to learn at least this one, we haven’t noticed at all what your life meant on earth.

May your soul rest in peace!

Mimi Dee December 6, 2013 at 3:19 pm You were the voice and strength of your people, for like a wall you didn’t not shake when those who brought hate and destruction to your country. Instead with courage you stood up for human rights, freedom for the oppressed, justice, and the right of your people to live with dignity and choose their own destiny. When others would have take revenge you chose peace, humility and wisdom. You were the father of a nation. To the world an icon of bringer of peace/uniter, perseverance, leadership, forgiveness, love, humility, wisdom and loyalty. Gone but never will be forgotten for you surely left an indelible mark in the history books and in our hearts, Madiba. Rest in peace. (DG, Mimi Dee)

Lucy December 6, 2013 at 3:21 pm Rest in peace TATA, you have been an inspiration to many. Till we meet again.

Bob Werunga December 6, 2013 at 3:50 pm Madiba we shall miss your courage and inspiration, you showed the world that people can live togather even after many years of isolation and prison,we thank you for your life and the work you did not only for South Africa(The Rainbow Nation)but to the world. May the Lord Almight rest your soul in enternal peace and give the people of South Africa Courage to continue what you started, A LUTA CONTINUIER MADIBA

Linda Murray December 6, 2013 at 4:15 pm an inspiration to all, during SA’s darkest times! forever remembered. rest in peace Madiba, as you join your fellow friends & comrades!

Paida December 6, 2013 at 4:18 pm A sad day for Mother Africa and for the rest of the world. We will always remember how you chose to not forget but at the same time forgive.

A death of a legend to humankind and one of the greatest human beings, we will never forget you Madiba. My heartfelt condolences to the people of South Africa, you are in are thoughts during these trying times

May his soul rest in peace

Serwaah Acheampong December 6, 2013 at 4:20 pm May he rest in perfect peace, he will forever be in our hearts,

Nyaguthie Ngetha December 6, 2013 at 4:32 pm Your taught the world to forgive. Your actions and words will inspire generations to come.

Pooshan Gopee December 6, 2013 at 4:34 pm RIP great man..

WEI December 6, 2013 at 4:40 pm We practice international law towards the direction you already guided for us. You are one of the most important reasons that we are still sticking to what we believe here. Wish you a peaceful journey. We future generations will not disappoint you.

Richard Wright December 6, 2013 at 4:42 pm Nelson Mandela was a shining beacon of hope to the world, an irreplaceable icon of humanity and defender of global values. His qualities of tolerance, forbearance, forgiveness, decency and respect for others – no matter how different – are a model for us all. I feel a profound sadness at the passing of this truly great, irreplaceable leader, revered by everyone, whose example should be the template for behaviour in today’s world.

Lucia Tshweu December 6, 2013 at 4:43 pm ‘MY BLACK PRESIDENT’,my HERO,my FATHER,TATA MADIBA. You will forever be missed and i will always remember you when it’s my birthday,as we were also sharing. A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again,REST IN PEACE TATA and rise in Glory,,,til we meet again in another world.

Anne Kamau December 6, 2013 at 4:46 pm There are no fitting words one can say about such an inspiring and courageous man the world will probably “NEVER” see again. I wish him eternal peace & rest and may GOD reward him richly for all he has done for mankind. Today the world has lost its biggest inspiration to live in peace and harmony and to have respect for racial diversity. I wish his family condolences at this most difficult time. GOD BLESS!

Alicia Lovell-Squires December 6, 2013 at 5:07 pm We, the people of the world are deeply saddened to hear this dreadful news!

This world will never be the same without you, Mr. Nelson Rolihlahla ‘Madiba’ Mandela!!!

You are a global icon who has touched our lives in many ways. You will always be remembered for your grace, dignity, vision, charisma, influence to lead, intelligence, selfless struggle for equality for all, justice, strong ethical values, motivation and determination!

You have fought a good fight and you have finished your course! Thanks to you for the sacrifices that you have made for all of us!!!

May you rest in perfect peace and rise in glory!!!

Sangya Singh December 6, 2013 at 5:09 pm Madiba, You are a true legend and you will forever live in our heart. Your walk to freedom rests but shall forever inspire us to continue forward. Rest in eternal peace. Sincerest respect, Sangya

Katrina Campbell December 6, 2013 at 5:19 pm Thank you to Mr. Mandela for his sacrifice on behalf of the people of South Africa, people of color around the world, and the world at large. As a black American, I can say that I have benefitted from his tireless work, along with the work of so many activists in South Africa and around the world. Without these efforts, I could not be where I am today. And thank you to the family and friends of Mr. Mandela, who gave him to the world so that he could broaden his sphere of influence to include all of humanity. Rest in peace.

Sebastiao Ndongala Vemba December 6, 2013 at 5:27 pm Tata Madiba, rest peacefully as for your dreams were all fulfilled and you left us good memories to have as model.

fabienne horton December 6, 2013 at 5:31 pm Nelson Mandela made the world a better place. Bless his soul and may his legacy endure.

Roberta Carmo Jimenez December 6, 2013 at 5:34 pm Good by Nelson Mandela, for me he was a special man, who led a people to end apartheid in South Africa, he will remain an example of peace, justice, intelligence, modesty and moral.

Catherine Arif December 6, 2013 at 5:36 pm Whilst I never had the honour nor privilege to meet you, you were without any doubt one of the most admirable people ever to have lived on this earth. Your capacity for forgiveness is a lesson to us all. Your legacy will live on for ever in the South African people that you freed. Good night sleep well.

Rupinder K Gill December 6, 2013 at 5:37 pm Nelson Mandela was an inspiring man who will always be remembered for his promotion of democracy, equality and his many charitable foundations. In the end it is our memories we remember most. Life is all the memories you make happen. I hope Nelson Mandela is remembered for generations to come ♥

walaa Awad December 6, 2013 at 5:38 pm Rest in peace my hero

Viktor December 6, 2013 at 5:41 pm To die in his sleep at old age is what all heroes deserve, a peaceful death.

Darlene Krystal December 6, 2013 at 5:43 pm The world hurts….the earth mourns….time takes a new beginning….his words of strength and peace will always be remembered….Let Dec 8 be a National Mandela Day for eternity…..Peace….a global holiday….. His words ring through the nations…..

Charles Icon December 6, 2013 at 5:45 pm Firstly, my bereaved thoughts and heart goes to his family and South Africa. It’s unsearcheable , undescribable in words and quiet humbling to protrait the enigma that Late Nelson Mandela was and still is today to to us and the world. He fought tooth and nail through and for a course which today we immersely are indepthly grateful and thankful for totally. In my heart I salute his boldness, courage, resilennce spirit and humble heart forever as long as I live. God bless South Africa, God bless the World and UN, Amen. RIP Madiba

Theworldfoodlottery December 6, 2013 at 5:50 pm “heart, soul, and spirit”

tei werth December 6, 2013 at 5:50 pm May we as South Africans remember and live, as well as strive towards your vision of One Nation, value life and also leave a remembarable legacy behind for our future generation.

Mary Tierney December 6, 2013 at 5:51 pm The privilege to be in South Africa from the time my former husband, a UN election worker, set up the election process and remained for two years, today resonates so deeply. Going back & forth from NYC to various parts of South Africa and ultimately ending in East London for Election Day was a life altering time. Prior to that, I was a part of the SOUTH AFRICA FREE ELECTION fundraising effort here in my home town of Greenwich Village, Manhattan. In 1990, at Gracie Mansion, I introduced him to my young nephew, Eddie Scannell, and we remembered that day in emails earlier this year. May I continue to have my life altered by Mandiba’s memory every day in thought, word but especially action. Finally, rest in that eternal peace.

saikli jalloh December 6, 2013 at 5:51 pm we lost the one and only, love you sop much.

Elvis WEPNGONG December 6, 2013 at 5:54 pm Nelson Mandela is a Father of many Nations just like our father Abraham in the Bible. History will never forget his impact to the world.

Rukhsana Gabol Balouch December 6, 2013 at 5:54 pm May your soul be in rest . A great leader God be happy to meet his great creation a great human and you go there as an hero of millions

Melaku Ashagrie December 6, 2013 at 5:55 pm Nelson Mandela was, is and will be Jesus of democracy, social justice and peaceful coexistence!!! His legacy is an Olympic flame that sparks through out generations!!!

MY HEARTFELT GRATITUDE TO NELSON MANDELA!!!!

Denise Badila December 6, 2013 at 6:00 pm Dear Madiba,

You are an inspiration for so many people around the world. Thank you for everything!!!!! You show us the way, let’s continue what you started. RIP.

Denise, NY, USA

Raj Thapa Magar December 6, 2013 at 6:04 pm Today we are saddened by the sudden demise of the great man, Madiba…!! He was a man of dignity, courages, determination, freedom, justice, equality, humanity, forgiveness and unity…!!!

My heartfelt tribute to that great man….!!!! Rest in peace , mandiba…!!!!!

Ana María Ortiz December 6, 2013 at 6:09 pm Mandela, Thank you for being my inspiration to pursue my dreams as a diplomat. You will be missed. All my love, Ana María

Julien Petit-Martin December 6, 2013 at 6:13 pm Greatings to all the world,

This tall man was honour Citizen of my City called Nanterre in France. We love him so much and he was a part of our life.

May he rest in peace. Respect to him and his nation.

Mellisa December 6, 2013 at 6:15 pm A great man is still a man and will become old, sick and eventually die. Nothing last forever, everything changes. However, he had done what he think is right and inspired all of us. And this man, had changed himself, changed the people around him, and then, he changed the world. May your soul rest in peace, knowing that you had made the world better and it will get better because of people like you. Thank you.

Dave Goodwin December 6, 2013 at 6:17 pm A long struggle. A long life. An inspiration to all of humanity who fight injustice, oppression and the powerful elites in our imperfect world. Rest easy brother Mandela.

Hatem Al-Iriani December 6, 2013 at 6:20 pm Dear Mandela The world will miss you too much. I believe though that you did not leave us yet. Your work, words, and blessings will stay with us for good. Hatem Al-Iriani Yemen

SYLVESTER EMMANUEL December 6, 2013 at 6:22 pm LORD JESUS, the man of the GUN’s delivery has left us. A leader with so much love and resilience for his people’s freedom. Both species of the delivery are Yours, and so we pray for more unity and equity between the p and d. Heavenly Father, Accept his soul unconditionally in his brother Abraham’s Bosom. Your grace have manifested in both of them unconditionally. May the end of his physical life with us, be an end to loveless and undemocratic leaders in the gun and globe.

MENE MENE EM EN 7 LORD!

Thank You, Lord for hearing the voice of an ‘unworthy’ lad at Your Trigger!

Be glorified in all the heavens and earth!

Stefanie Willches December 6, 2013 at 6:23 pm People was able to identify with Mr. Mandela; because, he could walk away but he didn’t. His name would always remind us courage and sacrifice for dignity and humanity! Condolences to his family and the World! RIP Mr. Mandela

Rachelle Rabie December 6, 2013 at 6:47 pm Madiba, our beloved father of our nation, It is a sad time for our nation at your passing. You were our Special Star and our symbol of peace, reconciliation, forgiveness, freedom and respect. May we live up to your name and symbolism and dedicate our lives in pursuit of what you stood and lived for. Your smile lifted our spirits, your voiced encouraged our boldness, your words were to us like bread to the poor, your humour made us love you even more and your actions sobered us to the knowledge of true love and sacrifice. Your loss echoes in our hearts, at the same time unifies us in mourning. May this time renew our intentions to live up to your dreams and unite us as the rainbow nation.

Camille Kwambai December 6, 2013 at 6:48 pm You’re a true hero!because you lived, many lives have been transformed and inspired! Africa mourns you,the world mourns you. You have left your great mark,you have left your legacy! RIP our beloved Madiba!

Sylvain Gomes Monteiro December 6, 2013 at 6:48 pm The World has just lost a GREAT MAN! Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela! May your legacy of FREEDOM for all human beings live Forever! I present my condolences to the Mandela family, to the People of South Africa and to the WORLD! SGM

dalila benmehidi December 6, 2013 at 6:56 pm a very sad day for all humanity.. however his spirit and work lives . He showed us how to prevail in the face of immense adversity and suddenly all our challenges seem so small and our goals attainable.

thank you Madiba you will be greatly missed

Rebeca Arias December 6, 2013 at 6:57 pm I am deeply saddened by the death of Mr. Nelson Mandela. His extraordinary leadership and life commitment to the cause of ending apartheid and bring peace and reconciliation to South Africa was an inspiration for all humanity, in particular for all of us that struggle for a world free of injustice, racism, discrimination and violence. His contribution to make this a better world for all human beings is incommensurable. I wish to express my deepest condolences to Mr. Mandela’s family and to the people of South Africa. Rebeca Arias, UN Resident Coordinator, Peru.

Younnique McDonald December 6, 2013 at 6:59 pm Talk about legacy, Mr. Mandela lived a life of humility, character and integrity. His life will be forever be celebrated and remembered for decades and decades to come as a reflection of God’s agape love. Mr. Mnadela looked beyond the humanity’s differences and put the magnifying glass on our similarities. There is far more than unifies us as a human race, than that which divides us. United we stand divided we fall. Thank you Mandingo, for being a role model to the world! May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Molale December 6, 2013 at 7:00 pm As we mourn, with all the sadness and pain of his passing away, we should hold our heads up high as he has served us with aplomb/ distinction! We can only be filled with a sense of pride that “ya gagwe tema o e weditse ka manontlhotlho, ka bo tshwerere tota”! that can only make us proud and spur us further to carry on his legacy!

It’s in our hands!

May Madiba’s soul rest in peace and rise in glory. Condolences to the bereaved family, friends, South Africa, African Continent and the whole world at large.

A mowa wa gagwe o robale ka khutso!

Aparna Anna R. December 6, 2013 at 7:03 pm Today humanity has lost one of its greatest advocates. Sir Nelson Mandela showed the world how to fight, fight for what you believe in, fight till you have achieved it. I hope we can continue his fight for equality till the dream is achieved. RIP.

Negus Gebreselasie hadera December 6, 2013 at 7:04 pm Mandela’s death has saddened the world and Africa in particular. However, his firm stand for peace, equality and human dignity will remain for ever in our memory. His brave comitment and selflessness should inspire us more than ever. African leaders need to make use of model in serving their people more much more than mere mourning his death.

Michael Zilberg December 6, 2013 at 7:08 pm Mr. Mandela’s principled conduct of his life is a great legacy and role model for every human being. He will be missed.

Dave Dowling December 6, 2013 at 7:08 pm South Africa did not loose a Son, The World lost an example of how to be, what to stand up for, what is is to be a Hero.

Yazen Al-Saghiri December 6, 2013 at 7:16 pm Madiba is alive in the very soul of every human. His words and deeds are tattooed in our hearts. He is the definition of eternity. May he rest in peace..

Tina December 6, 2013 at 7:25 pm As it says, the true living should be like, that, when you are born, you cry and the world around you laughs and when you finally leave, you laugh and the whole world cries. Dear Sir, you may have had departed this stage called “world” to heavenly abode, yet, you will remain immortal in all our minds as a great inspiration to fight off all odds and shine out through. RIP. Love and respect.

Carlos December 6, 2013 at 7:30 pm Great man. great soldier of peace. We will miss him!

Dr Nirvadha Singh December 6, 2013 at 7:35 pm Africa hasn’t just lost its father…It has lost its Soul… The very Soul which set us free… Hamba Kahle Madiba… Amandla Awethu!!! Dr Nirvadha Singh (https://www.facebook.com/nirvadha)

Nanou Fiankinana December 6, 2013 at 7:35 pm Madiba, pour touts ce que tu as déjà fait, merci. Tu mérites le repos du guerrier et tous les honneurs te reviennent de droit. Le voeux que nous autres, saurons faire cette longue marche pour la liberté et que tu continues à inspirer à l’action….

Mona Mishra December 6, 2013 at 7:36 pm An inspiration never dies. The fist in the air never dies.

Isaiah Smith December 6, 2013 at 7:42 pm Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela. The World has lost a hero. The Honorable Mandela has died at the age of 95. We respect Mandela’s passion and love for humanity. Throughout his life he has fought for democracy, freedom and equality. The World is a better place because of him and his legacy will never be forgotten!

~Isaiah Smith Ambassador General of the Universal Human and Civil Rights Union {UHCRU}

Siddharth Manu December 6, 2013 at 7:43 pm Dear Dr Mandela, I’m a young man from India. I remember when in 1995, when I was just 6 years old, my mother told me about your tremendous struggle. After that, I read my mentor Dr Ikeda calling you the “Lion of freedom”. To have spent 27 years in prison is the most extreme of persecutions anyone has faced in the modern age. You were a champion of humanity, who brought liberty & freedom to the whole world, not just to the South Africans.

Thank you for showing us the true way to live, the true power of a single individual. I promise to walk the path that you’ve shown us.

With deepest respect, Siddharth

Major Reg Tweten, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada December 6, 2013 at 7:44 pm To be remembered one must be known. Mr. Mandela was known by millions. His inspiring courage shall serve for many generations to come.

Nomapha Lupuzi December 6, 2013 at 7:46 pm Madiba you have left us during a crital time when we feel that hopes for the future are fading. This is not what you fought for. It is only our mistakes that have made us land where we are. We will remember those times when we sing songs of joy, shouting for victory. You deserve a classic valediction. The ‘Power of your spirit’ must lead our minds and action to where you wanted us to be. Rest in peace Dalibhunga.

Muhammad Usman Sheikh December 6, 2013 at 7:47 pm Sir, We missed a great leader and a human right activist…

vinodselv December 6, 2013 at 7:47 pm We Miss you..I didn see Marthin Luther king..Your my Luther king..The world never remember every person after they left..Till humanity exist the world will remember you..We miss you..love u

Nadia December 6, 2013 at 7:48 pm Nelson, I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done to make our world a better place. You will always stay in my heart… FOREVER ♥♥♥ Thank you for being my greatest inspiration! I love you :) ♥

Lauretta Sowe December 6, 2013 at 7:57 pm Rest in perfect Madiba…your legacy will live forever…farewdll..the angels of God to receive you

Gurpreet Virk December 6, 2013 at 7:59 pm YOU will live in peoples heart forever !!!!

Ma. Teresa Velasco December 6, 2013 at 8:11 pm Mis sentidos pésames al mundo entero por perder a un hombre tan importante, que luchó toda su vida por alcanzar la paz.

Esperemos que haya sembrado muchísimas semillas de amor y paz en el mundo, eso nos reconfortaría en este momento, que la misión por la que Dios lo envió a este mundo haya tenido muchos frutos, ya que ésto nos hace mucha falta en estas épocas, donde los seres humanos nos estamos olvidando que a nuestro alrededor sólo existen otros seres humanos, diferentes pero al fin seres humanos.

Léna Lupon / United Nations Headquarters December 6, 2013 at 8:13 pm May you rest in peace! Farewell to the most remarkable human being and the World’s Greatest. Thank you for all you have done on this earth for peace, freedom, development and fighting HIV/AIDS in South Africa, Africa and throughout the World. YOU WILL, FOREVER, BE AN INSPIRATION!!!

harpreet singh December 6, 2013 at 8:17 pm we have lost again Martin Luther King ,we have lost again Mahatma Gandhi ……

Jeannette van den Brink December 6, 2013 at 8:19 pm Respect for this great man! Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela……..

Upali Magedaragamage December 6, 2013 at 8:21 pm A great leader with compassion, generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service. A leader to the whole world!

Anita December 6, 2013 at 8:22 pm Hope, peace, love and forgiveness – a smile that’s left it’s imprint on my heart. Madiba, your life changed the world. The world miss you a lot…

Anita December 6, 2013 at 8:23 pm Hope, peace, love and forgiveness – a smile that’s left it’s imprint on my heart. Madiba, your life changed the world. The world will miss you a lot…

Chris Nwamba December 6, 2013 at 8:33 pm Madiba, you live to die, yet you die to live. Adieu

Yimika December 6, 2013 at 8:39 pm It seems unreal that you’ve passed away. But you’re in a far better place and your legacy lives on! You used your every minute and your every breath fighting for us and for that we thank you. You are an inspiration to millions, regardless of their race! Rest in Peace Madiba

Bio Mora December 6, 2013 at 8:41 pm Animas die,men die.All that walks the earth must die.But our true hero never dies,he will continue to live in our memories.The great Madiba stood for justice,fought for freedom,struggled for emancipation and sacrificed his entire life for the sake of humanity.Mandela was an embodiment of virtues,a symbol of love and humility.Infact,words cant express the person of Mandela,he was a phenomenon.We will miss him.Adieu Nelson Mandela!

Chris Nwamba December 6, 2013 at 8:42 pm Madiba, we will not miss you because you still live through your lagecy. I pray our leaders will study who you truely are and stand for. But be rest assured that I will tell my children about you and they in turn will tell their children for many generations to come. You are an example of service above self. Adieu

Am van alphen December 6, 2013 at 8:50 pm Rest in peace Madiba. Thank you for your contribution to this world.

Allie Ochs December 6, 2013 at 8:52 pm My heart is broken because you are gone, but the hope you planted there still grows strong.

Tony Baruti Basubi December 6, 2013 at 8:52 pm Les valeurs ne meurent jamais… Que chacun se tourne vers les valeurs humaines et Democratiques.

Les dirigeants africains doivent suivre l`exemple de Tata MADIBA.

gene ray sundet December 6, 2013 at 8:56 pm Thank you Nelson

gene ray sundet December 6, 2013 at 8:56 pm conver

'Manthatisi Margaret Machepha December 6, 2013 at 8:58 pm He has been a manifestation of God and a symbol of conscience and Gods purpose for mankind! Indeed he finally closed his eyes so we could open ours. Its now in our hands to realise that democracy is not a struggle but to lead the nation with intergrity and respect to humankind. To his family he was a father it had to share with the world, and we are with them in prayer. A freedom fighter enhanced to be iconic leader of all times. He introduced the moral authority over those he served and in turn earned the utmost respect from the world!

Baljinder (Bal) Boora December 6, 2013 at 9:05 pm Recently, I read his biography and became aware what this true leader had to contend with at the hands of brutal and racist regime in South Africa to get equal rights for the blacks and other visible minorities. Mandela suffered not on personally but his wife Winnie and their children suffered as well. He spent 27 years of his prime life time in a wet cell on the isle land prison.

The legacy this brave leader left for the world will guide the future generations like a light house when looking for guidance in any troubled society. He showed courage in the brutal fight against the white minority regime and brought them to their knees with the help of support for his mission from the international community.

Madiva’s name will shine in the pages of world history and enlighten future generations for living life with dignity and freedom. Hi name will shine for ever and ever on this planet as a true leader of mankind!

Long Live Mandela, Madiva! Bal Boora

Edgar M December 6, 2013 at 9:07 pm Fearless warrior of justice and equality. Rest in peace Nelson…!

Kathryn December 6, 2013 at 9:09 pm Rest In Peace

Dulcie Mapondera December 6, 2013 at 9:43 pm Dear Madiba, you were an inspiration to us all, and a great example through your forgiveness and leadership. The world has lost a truly great statesman.

Catherine Papilon December 6, 2013 at 9:44 pm In memory to Mr. Nelson Mandela:

What a great life and a great accomplishment, that contributed to open the doors of the start of a new life, where all men from different colors could finally leave in peace together on earth.

Luis Alberto Saldarriaga Ladino December 6, 2013 at 9:44 pm A great man Nelson Mandela, the world needs more eternal in time men like him.

JESUS MENDOZA December 6, 2013 at 9:45 pm MADIBA TUS ENSEÑANZAS QUEDARAN HASTA EL FIN DE LOS TIEMPOS, DIOS SOLO NECESITABA UN ANGEL MAS PARA INMORTALIZAR.. Q.E.P.D.

Anita Vosmer December 6, 2013 at 9:48 pm Nelson Mandela

May your legacy be as unending as your love for us

Stephanie Yepes December 6, 2013 at 9:48 pm Nelson Mandela was one of the Greatest leader around the world, his life and example has left so many lessons and examples to build a better world!

Yolanda. Todd December 6, 2013 at 9:50 pm No WORDS can express the LOST!!!

Edward December 6, 2013 at 9:51 pm Now, you can inspire us or all the people around the world, from the heaven, blessing us. Now we have your memories and you are part of the history now, thank you so much for make the world a better place.

Paula Romero December 6, 2013 at 9:52 pm Querido Mandela, para mi siempre un héroe, no sabes cuanta falta harás en este mundo, en el cual por muchos años, guiaste hacia la libertad, y siempre encaminado con un buen liderazgo! gracias, gracias por tan buenas acciones… eres un Ángel que esta cerca de nuestro señor ahora… Descansa en paz… has dejado tu GRAN LEGADO!

María Cristina Ortuño December 6, 2013 at 9:54 pm Gran pérdida para la humanidad. después de nuestro Libertador Simón Bolivar es Mandela a quien se le otorga en la época moderna tal distinción como LIbertador. fue gran luchador en contra del aparheid en Africa. Su pensamiento quedará como gran legado para las generaciones venideras.

Manuel de Quintana Morales December 6, 2013 at 10:00 pm Madiba vivirá en mi memoria e intentaré seguir su ejemplo y hablaré de él y de sus actos y sus pensamientos.

juan csernath December 6, 2013 at 10:03 pm No hay oscuridad para el alma que siempre ha vivido en la luz.

Juan Csernath/Caracas/Venezuela

Dave Green December 6, 2013 at 10:05 pm What amazed me about Nelson Mandela was that a man who had been wrongly imprisoned for decades could show such lack of anger. To have suffered in the way he did, and to then show such forgiveness and compassion towards his oppressors was the mark of a truly wonderful human being. The whole world will miss him.

Chukwuma Okonkwo December 6, 2013 at 10:07 pm Nelson Mandela had a spirit akin to an in-combustible coal; he was an indestructible mold of his kind. Mandela dared history; he transformed human race into a symbol that is held precious by everyone today.

There can never be any better way to describe Madiba. For me, describing him as the greatest man of my time is a mere scratch on the surface of his personality. He has left imprints of his shades on the sand of posterity. His model of leadership- leading from behind- leaves an inexpungible stamp in the history of mankind. Posterity will always know Madiba crossed this path.

I have only met Madiba in books and legends. Of all the people I have met through books and legends Madiba stands out like a beacon in the stormy azure sea. His strongly desirous and autobiographical work, Long Walk to Freedom, written by him and published in 1995 by Little Brown and Co., was my source of inspiration during my days at graduate school in England. One of the greatest things about Madiba that inspired me was that his human nature extended to the core of man’s essence on earth; his loving heart for the poor and destitute was exceptional. He never failed to extend his heartfelt wishes to the entire humanity in respective of race, religion, and sexual orientation.

You do not need to be around him before you witness his endearing aura. Madiba was a cynosure (he is still and will always be); his endearing aura is comparable to none. He was the old archetype of probity, universal morality, sacrifice, humility, social justice, and struggle: he played to the hilt. He will continue to be my favorite teacher and leader!!

Good night Madiba; Adieu Mandela.

Nohemy velez December 6, 2013 at 10:12 pm Mandela, vivirás en la memoria del mundo, serás eterno. Te recordaremos como el hombre que nos enseño, con su ejemplo,a perdonar. Paz en su tumba.

elizabeth gonzalez cardona December 6, 2013 at 10:16 pm Que gran perdida para la humanidad .

Bivian December 6, 2013 at 10:16 pm El mundo entero reconoce el enorme valor de este “Gran Señor” con todas las letras, un ser rhumano como pocos en existen. La luz que deja no dejará de brillar nunca y será la inspiración para otros que comienzan el camino. Su mirada, su humildad y la fortaleza en sus convicciones, en su creer de que todos podemos ser mejores nos hace pensar que es posible vivir en armonía con el otro. Descansa en paz Mandela, alcanzaste tu propósito, hacer de este mundo un lugar mejor…

Michael Emmanuel December 6, 2013 at 10:17 pm He was an extra-ordinary man with an ordinary touch,the world is very poor in his absence ,He was a man of the principles,a life well live dedicated to the cause of humanity as an African i yearn for the day we will have another Mandela but the truth is we will never ever have one ,as there is no one like him and the best we can do to honour him is to live like he did and hold strongly his values of compassion,love and forgiveness.

Mandela is the world icon and i will greatly miss him,as a foreign national residing and working in South Africa i owe all the successes that i have here to Nelson Mandela for without him South Africa would not have been kinder to allow me and my folks to reside here when we had problems in Zimbabwe,it is through his compassion that the spirit of ubuntu prevailed and we were welcomed.

Mandela is the world’s greatest and i wish we all can live The Mandela Way.

Meg T December 6, 2013 at 10:42 pm Tata Madiba,

From a small white girl in America…you saved my life by saving those of so many. When the tears stop falling and the heart is lighter with the understanding that you’re where you’ve wanted to be for so long, we will remember that it was you who challenged us to “inspire ourselves to greatness” and will use your work as inspiration to keep going.

Thank you for touching my life.

Bernadette Derry December 6, 2013 at 10:44 pm Such a wonderful man. We can and should learn his example of forgiveness and kindness. There will never be in my lifetime another person like him. God Bless you Mr Mandela.

diego leon December 6, 2013 at 11:06 pm Difícil que la historia humana vuelva a tener un hombre de la talla y el talante como Nelson Mandela… Hoy la humanidad perdió a un GRAN hombre…. Diego

liseth katherine soto torres December 6, 2013 at 11:12 pm Que Dios lo tenga eb su gloria. Gracias por luchar por la libertad e igualdad. Dejaste un gran legado

Judith g December 6, 2013 at 11:17 pm Merci. thank you. That the world may live up to your dreams. That the world’s youth will lead is to becoming a kinder and more caring people.

Paul and Kimberly Butler December 6, 2013 at 11:34 pm Sincere sympathies to the Mandela family. Truly a great man!

Ahmed Raja December 6, 2013 at 11:49 pm I may not have had the privilege of meeting you. . . I was not old enough to remember you as President. Yes, I am unfortunate for I was too young to enjoy your leadership completely. However, your actions have defined the life that My family and I are able to live. MADIBA, You have guided us towards Freedom! For that We should be eternally grateful. And so long as we protect our democracy, You will live on in all of us! Long Live the Legacy of Rolihlahla Mandela!

Yvonne Barrett December 7, 2013 at 12:03 am There will be no other man like you; you have and have made history, now you you are free; God Bless you, rest in peace !

sara December 7, 2013 at 12:05 am Un grande uomo non muore mai

Ian Paul December 7, 2013 at 12:05 am Rest in Peace Mr Mandela – Madiba, let his legacy be the rainbow nation of peace and reconciliation. Ian Paul, York, England

Vignesh Loganathan December 7, 2013 at 12:07 am Dear Sir, You may have be taken away from us, the world, physically but in the heart of humanity u still dwell as a Hero of Love, Justice, Compassion, Equality, and what ever good words of the mankind. Your soul rests with us . We well know that Peace in the World would give you Peace.

fiona December 7, 2013 at 12:11 am A Saint…one of Gods gifts

Maggie Guillon December 7, 2013 at 12:18 am An inevitable but no less traumatic loss for the world. A great man who will be remembered and honoured for all time.

Helen Lawrance December 7, 2013 at 12:21 am Nelson Mandela you were one of my biggest heroes when I was a child, and you still are. I remember hearing of your struggles in the news and from my parents, and then I went to study more about it at Birmingham University where I did African Studies. I remember these studies turned my brain inside out and a great truth was revealed to me. I discovered what colonialism really meant, what its legacy was. I learnt more about how white people were able to view black people as savages. I was so disgusted with the way my Europe has treated Africa and it’s people. You were a mighty beacon of hope. You worked tirelessly and have showed no bitterness. You did not get tempted by corruption. Thank you forever for what you have done on this Earth. I am very sad to hear of your passing and wish you an eternal, peaceful rest. With love!

Karenne December 7, 2013 at 12:27 am Our world is a far better place because of Nelson Mandela. A man of great character. His love for his nation and his forgiveness is inspirational.

Natalie December 7, 2013 at 12:36 am We have lost our hero, our teacher, our leader, our mentor, our father of our rainbow nation. An angel sent to remind us of what love, courage, justice and democracy stands for. Nelson Mandela has been my personal hero and I have applied his teachings to my life. I am truly sad that we no longer have him with us but it was time for him to join the rest of the angels in heaven. We, South Africans of all colour are his rainbow nation, we have to continue to walk in his footsteps and work together as a nation. We have to forget the past and become one team, working to better all equally and fairly. We are all unique, have different skin colour and different cultures but we all want peace, respect, love and democracy. We have to live by what he has taught us, change starts with Forgiveness. Lets us forget and start today now for that is what he wanted. We are his rainbow nation, South Africa and the World. I will cherise him always. RIP Tata Madiba, Father of our Nation

Willem Tahon December 7, 2013 at 12:42 am As the world mourns the loss of a giant leader my heart goes out to the people of South Africa.

Deborah Renaud December 7, 2013 at 12:59 am Rest in peace Nelson. You have shown us what it is to live a life of integrity, love and peace. You have demonstrated how powerful these qualities are. What a different world we would have if there were just hundreds, or even thousands, more like you! You have lived life well and have shown the way. God bless Deb x

Sarah Park December 7, 2013 at 1:06 am A truly inspirational hero and fighter. The world has lost a great man and a great leader. The world mourns his passing but celebrates in his legacy and achievements. Nelson Mandela will not be forgotten.

Patimass Seu December 7, 2013 at 1:12 am Mr. Mandela, You are an inspirational man all the good you have shown will last for generations.You will always be in are hearts because you truly loved everyone

Tim and Mart Japing December 7, 2013 at 1:17 am South Africa has lost her founding father. I sincerely hope and wish that his integrity and his ability to step over bounaries will be an inspiration and a duty for politicians and people alike. All my best wishes to the people of the Rainbow Nation.

Andre Everett December 7, 2013 at 1:18 am Im lost for the words to express how much I admire Nelson Mandela. In the 80’s I wear a button that said Free Mandela. In 1990 I lined through the word Free. I will devote time to learn of Mandela and try to live by his beliefs and love other humans

Sharon Yankelson December 7, 2013 at 1:33 am He has taught us the true meaning of forgiveness-a lesson we must pass on to our children & our children’s children. I wish his family long life. SY

Veronica S. Fawcett December 7, 2013 at 1:47 am So much has been learned from this strong, brave man.Makes me wonder who is left to share the wisdom and knowledge that has sadly gone with his passing. May we never forget what you have done for humanity and may I never forget the conviction and compassion you spoke of and with while in Toronto in 1998. Still a moving experience for me to this day and forever. You will always be the greatest world leader who other world leaders should learn from! R.I.P

Dr Lionel Bopage December 7, 2013 at 2:54 am Madiba dedicated his life to the cause of global humanity: justice, freedom and human rights. He cherished and lived his life for the ideals of democracy, where people can enjoy equity of opportunity so that they could live harmoniously in unity. He was prepared to die for this cause. Those who praise him, and those who value his life experiences need to learn from those living experiences and continue to follow through his ideals for the betterment of the global humanity.

Ronny Fredriksson December 7, 2013 at 3:06 am You are living in My memory! For à better world.

Narayan December 7, 2013 at 3:56 am Charity begins at home. UN talks loudly about human right and preaches everyone everywhere in the world. It does not follows itself, a UN professional staff was deprived from human right, staff right. A UN professional staff was/is exploited, tortured, discriminated in application of rules by a UN office head, in a UN humanitarian office. Repeated appeals and pleas to the heads (two executive directors between 2007 to 2011) of the organization fell into deaf ears. Let the soul of Mandela and god punish them for their inhuman activities as no one can do anything to provide justice to a victim in a UN organization.

Jill Fuller December 7, 2013 at 3:58 am Your work is done, Father. May you rest in peace. And may all your children live your legacy as passionately and as wisely as you lived your life. BLessup, Madiba! One love!

Joseph and Christine Reynolds December 7, 2013 at 4:05 am The world has lost a great leader. We are grieving his loss with you. We may not see him anymore, but he will never be forgotten.

Boujard December 7, 2013 at 5:01 am A determination to live as Madiba has lived, to strive as Madiba has strived and to not rest until his vision of a truly united South Africa, a peaceful and prosperous Africa, and a better world are realized. Africa will celebrate his life to preserve his legacy. Madiba taught South Africa to unite and believe in themselves and each other. May His Soul Rest in Peace.

Carol Crocker December 7, 2013 at 5:17 am Dear Nelson Mandela. Your being here on earth has made a wonderful difference to our whole world. Many are mourning and celebrating you at the same time. Your spirit will be carried in our hearts forever. Thank you for helping us get in touch with our own vulnerabilities and strengths. Your beautiful heart will remain a moral compass for all and your legacy will continue through others. Condolences to your family, friends, and all of us global citizens. Carol Crocker Brampton, ON Canada

Anne Dorris December 7, 2013 at 6:25 am What a sad day. The world lost a great human being, a real hero! A man who gave 150% of himself to a cause he believed in. He will be missed…..

Anne Dorris Québec, Canada

Sokchea Lim December 7, 2013 at 6:39 am He is a true hero. His words and actions have touched people of all walks of life. His sacrifice for freedom and unity of all man kinds is enormous and the path he chose to walk and guided others to follow is clear that it is the path for all to peace and harmony. His death is a huge loss for us all but his legacy will stay on and as a reminder to us all we must learn to live together. RIP

Joakim Hellmouth December 7, 2013 at 7:09 am R.I.P Mandela.

katherine December 7, 2013 at 7:09 am I am so grateful to have lived in your time Nelson Mandela. You have been an inspiration my whole adult life. You truly changed the world. Rest with the Angels.

Carol Gover December 7, 2013 at 7:24 am Nelson Mandela has been, and will continue to be, like a lighthouse beacon, for people that work to help improve the lives of people, that are suppressed by those peoples who would have them remain so. What endears me about this man is that he wanted all peoples to live as equals.

Migos Omounde December 7, 2013 at 7:49 am RIP Madiba for the long ardous journey you treaded to bring apartheid to an end bore fruit.You have only taken a rest,you are always with us.

Nabeel M K December 7, 2013 at 8:40 am Recalling one of the many reasons for me to salute Nelson Mandela is this very simple explanation he gave for “Ubuntu” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HED4h00xPPA

Pausing; and Remembering “how he has changed our world”….

Nabeel M K India

maniram mukherjee from india December 7, 2013 at 8:50 am Wold will take lesson from his work & from his speech.So he is not belong to a particular family,not a single country.So it is a loss of every single country to every single family.

maniram mukherjee December 7, 2013 at 8:52 am Wold will take lesson from his work & speech.So he is not belong to a particular family,not a single country.So it is a loss of every single country to every single family.

maniram mukherjee December 7, 2013 at 9:01 am World will take lesson from his work & from his speech.So he is not belong to a particular family,not a single country.So it is a loss of every single country to every single family.

Abdulkadir Mussa December 7, 2013 at 9:11 am Madiba, your legacy will be remembered for Ever. You have inspiried the Whole World. RIP.

Boaz Nyaberi December 7, 2013 at 9:17 am I salute the father of african nations. I met him at pretoria university where he presented me with a degree in Information technology Degree and Masters degree

Juhani Nevala December 7, 2013 at 9:23 am By visying SA I realised how great job NM has done.

Gabriella Nyhäll December 7, 2013 at 9:47 am It’s a new morning. A new day. Laying in my bed. Tears on my cheak. I’m afraid. Mr Mandela what shall we do now? The world needs leadership. Your Leadership. Now it’s up to all of us. Everyone, everybody. We must continue. Everyday all over the world. Together. All your efforts should continue. We have a responsibility. In respect for your efforts we will continue. Never ever stop. Madiba, Thank you. Your hope is my hope. Rest in Peace.

Rizkia Anjani December 7, 2013 at 9:56 am I was born just in the end of 20th century. When Mr. Mandela was inaugurated to be the first democratic-elected president of South Africa, I was 3 years old. As a very young child, I knew nothing about Mr. Mandela until my father told me about who he actually is. A figure with a profound passion in shifting people’s point of view towards how we are supposed to see this life in terms of equality. We cannot choose where we want to be born in, yet the race we prefer to belong to, OR whether we should have been born as Black, White or other existing colors in human race. It’s our fate. Should race impede our capacity and capability? Should skin colors determine our opportunity in having better future and more importantly contributing for the goodness of human race? I painstakingly answer: NO. And I guess Mr. Mandela will think the same way.

We may be have lost Mr. Mandela, but we cannot give up preserving his spirit in terms of freedom and equality :)

We will always remember your struggle, Mr. Mandela !

Ravololondramiarana December 7, 2013 at 9:58 am Quel grand homme, quelle humilité et quelle intelligence. Si les dirigeants actuels étaient capables d’avoir ne serait ce qu’un dixieème de sa qualité, que le monde serait meilleur. Nelson Mandela, Merci.

ZONZONTI December 7, 2013 at 10:38 am Be in Eternal Peace. You are always with us.

Suzanne "Zac" Faelnar December 7, 2013 at 10:54 am The most brilliant of stars that shines in the darkest of nights; The most unshakable and immovable of mountains that remains standing tall; The most powerful beacon of light that brings hope to a burdened people; The most profound and inspirational of minds that brings humility to humankind; The heart that beats as one with a nation; The soul that dives so deep for their sake; The spirit that sours so freely among a troubled and shackled people of the world. Rise higher than the heavens! Smile warmer than the sun! May our tears of love and gratitude reach you in your rightful place of eternal rest and peace. Thank you, Nelson “MADIBA” Mandela!

Theresa December 7, 2013 at 10:58 am Your inspiration will last forever! Thanks to you I believe in humankind! Rest in Peace Mr Mandela!

Trudy Begg December 7, 2013 at 11:19 am 2 people have made a profound impact on this world Ghandi and Mandela, both of these men were selfless and taught the world what can b e achieved peacefully. They should be cloned so we may all live our short lives in peace and love.

sven hildebrandt December 7, 2013 at 12:43 pm Nicht nur Südafrika sondern die Welt hat den wohl größten Helden unserer Zeit verloren.

Danke Madiba

Grazyna Malgorzata Mamaj December 7, 2013 at 12:45 pm Odszedl jeden z najwspanialszych wspolczesnych. Rest in Peace kochany Nelson Mandela. Wyrazy glebokiego wspolczucia dla Rodziny, bliskich, przyjaciol i wszystkich, ktorzy Go kochali i podziwiali.

Francisco Balao de los Ríos December 7, 2013 at 1:25 pm No te olvidaremos. Has sido un luchador incansable contra el racismo y siempre serás un ejemplo para los que creemos en una cultura de paz.

Frances Devlin December 7, 2013 at 2:05 pm If everyone could only have a drop of your wisdom, the world would be a much safer and better place. Rest In Peace Nelson Mandela

Knut Ostby December 7, 2013 at 2:22 pm A great statesman has left us. He showed us how greatness can emerge from personal ideals and from believing in what is right. He showed us how true greatness can prevail against all odds and against pettiness on all sides. The world is poorer now that Nelson Mandela is no longer with us. But we should try our best to live on in his spirit. We can not be Nelson Mandela, but we can all contribute something.

Maria Howard December 7, 2013 at 2:49 pm My father taught me that all people are equal regardless of colour, race or creed so I rejoiced when arpatheid ended but feared a bloodbath. Nelson Mandela had to live within that dreadful regime and was imprisoned by it yet preached peace and reconciliation. Present day South Africa is a tribute to his beliefs and leadership. Sincere condolences to all who mourn him. Farewell, Mr Mandela, rest in peace. Maria, Thuir, France.

Jan-Olof Wildén December 7, 2013 at 3:16 pm Rest i Peace. You where the Worlds peacebringer.

Thuku Samuel Muthee December 7, 2013 at 3:32 pm You were my hero. You still remain so in death. I wanted to name my second son Nelson, the first is called Dedan, after Dedan Kimathi, the hero of Kenya. But we got a beautiful girl named Catherine. Her elder sister , Theresa, still asks for Nelson Mandela. Not possible because my wife already has 3 ceasarians. I wish i could.

To me, you are in the class of the following: the many unsung heroes of in our villages; Bapu Mahatma Gandhji; and Mother Theresa of Calcuta. You always lit my fire for freedom, rights, justice and equality for all. You remain a great being….i will ever be proud to say that i lived on this planet at the same time as you. You are a father to me forever.

Now another light has shone for you. Isnt it great and blight? You are free. Freedom came. Such a great soul. Its the way for us all. But we wish you had stayed here a little more. The history of humanity will never be complete without ypu. Thats how great you are!

I accept you have exited. You deserved it after the long walk. But i have put your image facing a light (with your signature smile) on the screen of my phone. For 1yr from now, i will see you everyday! Then i will let go. Its my only way of honoring you my hero..

Fare thee well my father. We will all miss you. Thanks for all you did for us. God grant you peace unknown. Bye till we meet.

One of your many sons and daughters. S M Thuku. Kenya.

Leanne Tobias December 7, 2013 at 3:45 pm Nelson Mandela is a hero for the ages. Mandela exemplifies the best of transformative leadership in advancing the cause of human dignity and freedom. The world has lost a great statesman. I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Mandela’s family, friends and colleagues, and to the people of South Africa, and join them in mourning Mr. Mandela’s passing and in celebrating his life and legacy.

Leanne Tobias Bethesda, MD USA

Ethel Maringa December 7, 2013 at 3:49 pm A very sad moment, You will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace.

Judith Campbell December 7, 2013 at 3:50 pm In a world of prejudice and hate you gave us courage, strength and hope For a better future. We will truly miss your wisdom and spirit of love. May God keep you always in his loving care and comfort your family and The world as we mourn and celebrate a life lived in service to God and mankind. Love the Campbell Family, Canada.

Dave,Veronica,Luther,David Alexander December 7, 2013 at 4:13 pm We love you Madiba.

Just me December 7, 2013 at 4:17 pm A man I consider to be one of the greatest from the present along with all from history has passed. This however is not a tragic loss, if one considers that he will certainly be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven by the Lord. I salute both the man and the legacy he leaves behind.

Elkin D Dávila Grajales December 7, 2013 at 4:18 pm Se ha perdido la orientación viva del lider más importante en la historia de la humanidad del siglo XX y principios del XXI: Inclaudicable ante la opresión, la tiranía llegando incluso a impulsar la lucha armada para alcanzar la libertad de su pueblo.Por ello su mensaje se mantendrá en la historia.

Ulf Jarnefjord December 7, 2013 at 5:09 pm Din gärning och minne kommer alltid att följa oss i både glädje och sorg. Vila i frid Madiba Amandla!

Rachel May December 7, 2013 at 5:27 pm What did Nelson Mandela teach you? He showed me that no matter what life throws at you or how people treat you, it is only you who determines whether you are bitter and resentful or live your life with dignity and grace. Never forgetting your ideals, honour and integrity but also forgiving others. It is almost inhuman exactly how well he managed to do that after suffering such hatred and racism. The love and peace he spread must surely come back to him. My kids are 4 and 6 and they have known for a long time who Nelson Mandela is and what he stands for. Not just a man but the very best he could be. Never forget the lessons this man taught the world.

Chiaming Shen December 7, 2013 at 6:03 pm You are the role model of politicians in the world . Condolence From Taiwan

Mahfuja Parven December 7, 2013 at 6:19 pm Greetings.To so many of us ,he was more than just a man-he was a symbol of the struggle for justice ,equality and dignity in South Africa and around the Globe.Mandela made it clear that- we did not have to accept the world as it is -that we could do our part to seek the world as it should be.Together we can make the difference- today when i sliced my cauliflower,potatoes next saw one deaf n dumb working people with huge gourd leafy vegetables- i helped next seeing other also means Nelson Mandela somehow inspired together work commitment!Rest in Peace dear honorable Nelson Madella- we never forget your greatness! Greetings,thanks,peace,love n Best Regards from Bangladesh.

Zephaniah Nyambaka December 7, 2013 at 7:11 pm R.I.P, your exemplary trait is an unimaginable across Africa. We need more of your character across the world.

Nauzer Taraporvala December 7, 2013 at 7:33 pm Rest In peace Madiba, the Likes Of You Will Not Be Seen On Earth For A Long Time To Come. May All Your UnFinished Work Be Completed By Your Devine Intervention.

Steve Brittain December 7, 2013 at 7:56 pm A man who was loved by a whole nation; and beyond. He will live on as he has truly made his mark in history.

Jaspreet Pandhal December 7, 2013 at 8:21 pm A true visionary, humanitarian, inspiration, force, believer and the truest, purest form of what we should aim to believe, be and achieve as human beings. One love, one world, forgiveness and progress. God bless you and thank you for inspiring me to try to live my life to it’s fullest potential. X

rim December 7, 2013 at 8:30 pm we lost a great man that history will never repeat rest in peace :(

Kamel Romdhani December 7, 2013 at 8:37 pm Thanks Nelson, without you we could still be in slavery! I will meet you soon even if I will reach 100 years!! Big kisses….. Kamel

kaouther Bizani Zamouri December 7, 2013 at 8:37 pm My love and sympathy go out to South Africa and the entire world for the lost of the Universal Activist “Nelson Mandela”. Kaouther dom Tunisia

Yana Slater December 7, 2013 at 8:41 pm There will never be another! Time to rest. Peace and Love.

kaouther Bizani Zamouri December 7, 2013 at 8:41 pm My love and sympathy go out to South Africa and the entire world for the lost of the Universal Activist Nelson Mandela.

Hassan Odhiambo December 7, 2013 at 8:45 pm R.I.P MADIBA

Zinai Aicha December 7, 2013 at 9:18 pm Reste in peace ,humanity never forget you Mandela !

Bussarin Rattanawiriyanukoon December 7, 2013 at 10:08 pm I wished you have a good times at the paradise.

Ghorch Sfar Samia December 7, 2013 at 10:28 pm Je tiens à présenter mes sincères condoléances à la Grande Famille du Grand Leader Nelson Mandela, mes condoléances les affectueuses au peuple de l’Afrique du Sud La Perte de cette grande personnalité m’a peiné et marqué, c’est mon idole c’est l’homme le plus humain et le plus tolérant. Ses principes et ses valeurs sont universels et il était, il est et il sera la source d’inspiration de beaucoup de personnes. Je n’oublierai jamais ses mots “Le pardon libère l’âme, il fait disparaître la peur. C’est pourquoi le pardon est une arme si puissante.” Oui, il est grand,. Adieu MADIBA Adieu MADIBA mais je ne t’oublierai jamais jamais. Que dieu le tout puissant t’accorde sa miséricorde et t’accueille dans son éternel paradis.

Rene Leeuwen December 7, 2013 at 10:49 pm Thanks for all the good things you did in your life May you rest in peace thats what you deserve. You where a great leader and a wonderfull man. Wish you all the best where you are going now. Again thanks

Hussein mohamed December 7, 2013 at 11:35 pm RIP PAPA #MADIBA … WE LOVED YOU BUT GOD LOVED YOU MORE <3 HUSSEIN MOHAMED NAIROBI, KENYA

Hafedh Ben Miled December 7, 2013 at 11:41 pm Dear mentor, Your will always inspire us. Your thoughts are planted deep inside us. May your soul rest in peace!!!

Eppi Sukhu December 8, 2013 at 12:59 am My sincere pranam and deepest thanks for sharing so much of yourself with the world. May you rest in peace.

Tunde Ola Sanyaolu December 8, 2013 at 1:58 am Nelson Mandela, a great man with a clear vision and an unfailing courage nurtured by a deep sincerity. The aroma of the fragrance of his life will forever be perceived. Madiba lives on. – Tunde Ola Sanyaolu.

Ashante Jasson December 8, 2013 at 7:29 am Thank you Madiba for all your sacrifices, thank you for fighting for our freedom. RIP Tata. Condolences to the Mandela family and friends

Paul Whelan December 8, 2013 at 9:48 am Nelson Mandela was a man beyond works, a statesman beyond politics and the only true icon of the 21st Century.

Karen Peach-Jones December 8, 2013 at 10:22 am The world has said goodbye to a truly beautiful man. His greatness was in his humanity. My heart is so deeply saddened and yet the legacy this amazing man left is chiseled into the rocks of time and will never be forgotten.

Felicien KIMUNI December 8, 2013 at 10:55 am I am from Democratic Republic of Congo. Peace for Nelson Mandela. I remember from President Nelson,He say : “We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.”

R.I.P President Nelson Mandela.

lindsay allen from Australia December 8, 2013 at 11:37 am We need young Mandelas.

Darren Sullivan December 8, 2013 at 12:26 pm The greatest of men. May your light shine on us from heaven. Rest in peace

Darren Sunderland UK

Hope Kabamba December 8, 2013 at 12:29 pm To all Africans and South African, we have lost a father who has inspired so many people from different racial groups. your works will still linger in so many people’s hearts and may your soul rest in peace. What do people carry to their graves? Nothing but what is important is the works that they leave behind. Well done Tate Mandela, well done!

Susanne /Salzburg, Austria December 8, 2013 at 1:23 pm Rest in heavenly peace Mr. Mandela

Everton December 8, 2013 at 2:19 pm To a great African hero revolutionary Your work works will never die . As a child I saw the injustice, the suffering , of your nation. I saw the victory of good over evil that you and your comrades won for your nation. Dada Mandela your work here is done.

S Currant December 8, 2013 at 2:34 pm Thank you. Mr Mandela. Now your walk to freedom is at an end. R.I.P.

Dr. Adrijano Schwab December 8, 2013 at 3:04 pm I am expressing my own and our family’s deepest condolence to the close relatives of Nelson Mandela as well as to the nation of South Africa at the occasion of his death. Nelson Mandela was an extraordinary leader and man of many capabilities. It is always a great loss when humans of such capacities pass away.

Sincerely, Dr. Adrijano Schwab (our PC was broken down temprorarily)

Nathan Swartz December 8, 2013 at 3:28 pm Dear Mandela Family

“Throughout the ages people have came and gone,some not even leaving a name behind”…–Nelson Mandela

I want to pay my deepest condolences to the Mandela family on the loss of Tata Madiba,this is one of his quotes that changed my life and gave me as a South African youth hope in who I am, and that we all have potential to leave a legacy that can create footprints of change throughout the world…

The world pays tribute to a legacy not forgotten A fire unquenched A dream given life His vision now lives in our hearts and reflected in our daily lives. His character became our nation’s identity. May God bring you strength and peace in your time of sorrow.

South Africa,the rainbow nation made possible by his courage,the father of the nation. He took the long walk to freedom,dedicated his life for others.Tata Madiba has brought love and joy to children all over the world,given hope to young and old of a brighter future.

Let us remember him as A noble father,loving husband, a champion freedom fighter, a inspiring visionary, a true hero. His legacy will always live on… In the minds and hearts of all South Africans and the world.

May his soul rest in peace, and his memories live on forever.

Nathan Swartz (South African Youth Ambassador currently on the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program in USA)

Maria McDonnell December 8, 2013 at 3:47 pm Thoughts with the Mandea family, an icon of our time – an amazing man who accomplished the impossible and freed a country with love, forgiveness and ended apartheid – May he rest in peace and know he will never be forgotten. I hope & I pray that South Africa moves forward to become the country it can be based on the values and principles Nelson Mandela gave it.

Melinda Rooke December 8, 2013 at 4:13 pm Dearest One, RIP, Thank you, gentle grandfather, for leading the way to peace and light… a path we will all follow in your giant footsteps!

Paari Senthil Kumar December 8, 2013 at 4:27 pm Sir ! You are the perfect example of “Human Being” You life is an open book to all of us, you thought us how to fight, with voice. After Gandhiji left his place vacant, you replaced him by considering as your role model, to bring a social balance in the society. Not only in SA, but throughout this world, there are numerous social imbalance and discrimination are taking place. That too in some places with the support of Politicians and people in the most powerful state. Reasonably, you are the dedicated role model to all of us, in showing the purpose of this humanity and why does we need to love others. Your sad dismiss is very shocking, and it is very hard to replace you. You patience, strong heart, anger to free your people, foreign co-operation, social building, environmental development, hard working, love to fight against discrimination, makes everybody to love you throughput this world. You are one of the excellent human, who lived in this world. may your soul rest in peace.

Sadiq Dankano December 8, 2013 at 6:12 pm In death, the world celebrates the LIFE of Mandela, a leader par excellence. It should and must be a lesson to all leaders in the continent. May his exemplary life touch the hearts of our leaders!

Kirsten Walters December 8, 2013 at 7:48 pm Tata Madiba…the man who taught the world to love. A man whose memory will live on forever in our hearts. Your brilliant, genuine smile, your outstretched hand to anyone in need, your undying love for children…just a few of your wonderful attributes that will be so dearly missed. I am so lucky to have lived in your time. Thank you Tata Madiba!!! We will miss you!!

All our Love Kirsten, Yasmin, Dylan and Josh

Romy Naidoo December 8, 2013 at 8:53 pm It saddens me to know that one of my biggest regrets will be to not have met my Hero, but I take comfort in living in the free South Africa he fought so hard to save… R.I.P hambe khahle Tata.

Roger Williams December 8, 2013 at 9:02 pm I have not felt a loss like this since losing my own father. A real hero has died. An inspirational light from which the entire world was able to feel and share in the warmth and love of true humanity. He will live in our hearts always. Gone is the greatest man to live in my lifetime

Vun December 8, 2013 at 9:22 pm wow, what a life you’ve led a life of no hate wow, strong you must’ve been so to let all wrongs go can’t b’lieve I won’t see you ’round ‘n’ ’bout no more rest in peace!

Egbujionuma Michael December 8, 2013 at 9:36 pm When I was very much a kid growing up in Nigeria, I remembered asking my mum ‘is this man the President of Nigeria? ‘ My mama replied ‘no his a great man of Africa who is to change many things’. Since then whenever I see Nelson Mandela’s picture I quickly associate him with greatness. Madiba you are an epitome of greatness and symbol of change and altruism. For us the living, we can in our various calling be Madiba, let’s us all look into ourselves and bring out the Madiba in us..Madiba is in you!!! #Madibaisinyou

Albert Romkes December 8, 2013 at 10:23 pm Urk, the Netherlands, 8-12-2013

For Mandela Family, please accept my condolences with the loss of mr. Nelson Mandela. He was a peacefull man and a example for everybody in the world.

Grace Okeng December 8, 2013 at 10:24 pm Nelson Mandela was God-sent servant to the world with a message of love, peace, compassion and tolerance. Though he belongs to the ages now, he still lives in our hearts and guides us by his values and aspirations. He is now back home and we thank God for lending him to us for 95 years. RIP.

Albert Romkes December 8, 2013 at 10:28 pm Urk, the Netherlands, 8-12-2013

For the Mandela Family, Please accept my Condolences with the loss of Mr. Nelson Mandela. He was a Peacefull man and a example for everybody in the world.

Albert Romkes, Urk, the Netherlands.

Michael Sutton December 8, 2013 at 10:49 pm You taught the world that all peoples are equal and are all due the same respect and freedom. Having set Mankind on the long road to reconciliation and peace it is time for you to rest and the rest of Mankind to carry your ideals forward.

The Lord has taken you into his arms now.

Rest peacefully Tata

Ute Buerkle December 8, 2013 at 11:53 pm Your legacy will stay with us forever and the lessons we have learned through you will help us to keep on working to make the world a better place in true spirit of peace, love, compassion and reconciliation. Rest in peace, you deserve the peace – we envy the angels who dance with you now .

Emmanuel Mark December 9, 2013 at 1:28 am Thanks for enduring all this sufferings for us mankind Inorder to make this planet a habitable place where mankind can hold his head up and walk in divinity. Thanks again. Emmanuel Mark, Basel, Switzerland

Maja December 9, 2013 at 1:36 am A true inspiration for all the young people. We should all learn from him. He will be missed!

Prince John Moses Jammeh December 9, 2013 at 1:50 am Papa Madiba, you were a Blessing to world Peace by shinning the touch of Truth and humility . You did your Duty on Earth with a clear Conscience . Live on Baba,…

RASD December 9, 2013 at 2:25 am بير لحلو, 5 ديسمبر 2013 تلقينا ببالغ من الحزن و الأسى خبر وفاة الزعيم المناضل نيلسون مانديلا يوم الخميس الماضي. باسم حكومة وشعب الجمهورية العربية الصحراوية الديمقراطية نقدم تعازينا الحارة و تعاطفنا الكامل مع شعب جمهورية جنوب أفريقيا الشقيقة ومع عائلة الفقيد إثر هذا المصاب الجلل. لم يكن القائد نيلسون مانديلا ابنا عظيما لجنوب افريقيا فحسب بل كان ابنا عظيما لكل افريقيا و العالم أجمع. ولأنه لا ينتمي الى جنوب افريقيا فقط فإن العالم هو اليوم في حداد على رجل قضى ثلث عمره داخل السجون مناضلا بشجاعة وإقدام من أجل تخليص شعبه من عهد العنصرية المظلم ومن قمع نظام الابارتايد. وخلال فترة توليه منصب رئيس جنوب أفريقيا, لم يدخر أي جهد في التصدي لإرث الفصل العنصري وذلك بمواجهة جميع أشكال العنصرية و الفقر و اللامساواة وتعزيز السلام و المصالحة و العدالة الاجتماعية. و نتيجة لنضاله السلمي و قيادته النموذجية، نال جائزة نوبل للسلام سنة 1993 اعترافا بدوره المحوري في قيادة التحول السلمي للحكم في جنوب أفريقيا و التي أدت الى تغيرات كبيرة في المجال السياسي و الاقتصادي ة كذا في المشهد الاجتماعي للبلد. و سيتذكر العالم نيلسون مانديلا ليس فقط بأنه عظيم شعبه و أول رئيس لجمهورية جنوب أفريقيا الحرة و لكن أيضا منارة للأمل و مصدر إلهام كبير لكل شعوب العالم في نضالها ضد القمع و الاستبداد. إن مقاومته للأبارتايد طوال حياته و رحلته الرمزية من غياهب السجون الى سدة الحكم في جنوب أفريقيا أظهرت للعالم أنه مهما كانت وحشية القمع الاستعماري فإن إرادة الشعب المظلوم ستكون لها الغلبة في نهاية المطاف. إن الشعب الصحراوي الذي مازال يناضل من أجل نيل حريته و استقلاله يشاطر اليوم العالم كله في الحداد على أحد رجالات الدولة الأكثر شعبية و تبجيلا في القرن العشرين. و قد قال الراحل مانديلا ذات مرة: ” حينما يقدم الشخص ما يعتبره واجبا لشعبه و لوطنه فإنه يستطيع أن يبقى دائما في سلام”. وبالفعل فقد قام مانديلا بواجبه و بمهمته اتجاه شعبه واللإنسانية بصفة عامة ولذلك سوف يرقد في سلام الى الأبد. محمد عبد العزيز رئيس الجمهورية العربية الصحراوية الديمقراطية الأمين العام لجبهة البولسياريو.

Gloria Langridge December 9, 2013 at 3:00 am I send my sincere condolences and love, from the other side of the world, to the family and friends of Nelson Mandela and to the people of South Africa, following his passing. He has been a shining light and inspiration throughout my life and I feel humbled and privileged to have lived during his lifetime and to have witnessed South Africa’s victory over apartheid. May God keep Madiba and may he continue to make his presence felt in the world!

Michael Benbow December 9, 2013 at 3:16 am Mandela. Your name itself inspires so many and for me you will always be a true example of what humanity at it’s best is capable of. You were not perfect but you were a man who did what you could.

Gloria Langridge December 9, 2013 at 3:19 am Michael,

Thank you for reminding us that we have the power to bring out the Madiba in us; something to treasure in our loss!

With love, Gloria (London)

Tunde Ola Sanyaolu December 9, 2013 at 3:26 am Nelson Mandela : A man of a clear vision and an unfailing courage nurtured by a deep sincerity. The fragrance of your life will forever be perceived. Madiba lives on. – Tunde Ola Sanyaolu.

James Webb December 9, 2013 at 3:50 am R.I.P Mandela, Thank you for being awesome! James Webb, 10 years old.

Frans ShiimiTaapopi December 9, 2013 at 6:27 am He was a great man, son of Africa. Man Of peace, we will never forget what he showed us that together we can. May His Soul Rest In Eternal peace.

Martha Molefe December 9, 2013 at 7:47 am May your soul be blessed, rest in peace Tata. We owe it to you to carry on the work you started. We shall complete The Nelson Mandela children’s Hospital and we shall carry on your legacy to our children’s children. Never again shall this nation be oppressed by one on another. I pray to God that our leaders be selfless and servants of their people. I pray that we combat violence and inequality in our society. I vow to fight for economic freedom. Qhawe le Sizwe

Samuel Fernández Diekert December 9, 2013 at 8:29 am Never before in my life, the passing away of a person I had not met in life, had touched me this deeply. Mr. Mandela was a father to the whole world, and we have been left orphans. His legacy shall last and guide us in our respective life paths.

Irene Mwakesi December 9, 2013 at 8:42 am Rest in peace Tata Madiba. You have trully been the father of Africa and the whole world. You are respected by young and old and even the unborn. May God comfort Mr. Mandela’s family, May God comfort Africa.

Vivian December 9, 2013 at 8:59 am Nelson Mandela was a legend and a hero in the 20th Century and in the current one as well. He was a great and respectable man in the world. Everybody, no matter the nation, race, age, and gender, loves him and respects him deeply. May his spirit of selfless serving and sacrifice be carried on by the politicians in every country and eventually eradicate all types of discrimination occurring in the world. May his soul rest in eternal peace!

Veruschka McKay December 9, 2013 at 9:10 am I feel ashamed that only in his passing do I come to realise the power and potential within me to live by example as Madiba did, to be an advocate of that which must be right like he was and to include in my daily life, the constant and consistent work towards social justice and equality for all, especially in the field where I can have an impact, namely education. I thank him for his life and his life’s work and will ensure that my children will know that in their mother’s lifetime, we walked the earth in the presence of Love, Grace, Humility and Service to mankind, principles which I must uphold too. Now, more than ever, South Africa should be bathed in Light in order to uphold his legacy and perpetuate his teachings. I give thanks for the Light in South Africa.

Aida Robbana December 9, 2013 at 9:14 am Mes sinèces condoléances à la famille et aux enfants du défunt. Puisse la Tunisie connaître un homme exceptionnel et visionnaire comme celui ci. Paix à son âme Aida

Viateur Ngiruwonsanga December 9, 2013 at 9:28 am Could he inspire African leaders to accept tolerance, democracy and especially those in Sub Saharan countries. We will miss you but pray for us to be delivered indeed as you were! Hope the South Africans and the entire world will never forget you.

The Almighty may assure you the eternal rest in peace!

Thekelo Mokou December 9, 2013 at 10:03 am Farewell Freedom Fighter……Rest in Peace

Mimi December 9, 2013 at 10:24 am I mourn the huge loss of my greatest Hero of all times. Your work has inspired me and taught me humility, morality and intensified my love for humanity and the freedom of mankind wherever and whenever they might walk the earth. I thank you and will always remember your braveness, determination and beautiful smile .

Clemence Ingabire December 9, 2013 at 10:29 am My eldest son William was born on July 18. He bears the nickname Madiba. May your legacy of love, tolerance and justice inspire his life. Thank you. We will never forget you!

Linus Wafula December 9, 2013 at 11:00 am Your legacy will remain in our life forever. May God rest you soul in peace.

Stefan Popovic December 9, 2013 at 11:08 am You earned your peace. May the African good spirits watch over you.

Nela Krnic Brkovic December 9, 2013 at 11:14 am I will always remember and sincerely admire Your passion, commitment and beleif in better world. My deepest condolences to Your family and humanity as a whole. Thank You.

Abby Ncube December 9, 2013 at 11:22 am Gone, but never forgotten. “It always seems impossible until it’s done”. Will forever remember those words. May they enable us to conquer our fears and reach great heights. Rest in eternal peace.

Ndzi Jonathan Budzi December 9, 2013 at 11:31 am Dear Madiba, You have championed the world and go well without having to look back. But pray for us, as we struggle to meet your aspirations. I hope one day when you look back, then you will give a big smile and say the world has an improved on injustice and individual freedoms. We are proud to celebrate your life. World without end. AMEN Jonathan

Alexander da Costa December 9, 2013 at 11:44 am To live your life without fear or favour is the greatest contribution one can give to life. Nelson Mandela more or less achieved this and when we talk about Icons in the world he is the benchmark every day anytime. May his soul rest in perpetual peace!

Kadi Kgokolo December 9, 2013 at 11:55 am Tata Madiba, your spirit will live forever, your humanity will always prevail. All that you have preached shall not be forgotten. You have done more than enough, more than we could have asked for. As you once said, it is now in our hands…Rest in peace

W.Moses December 9, 2013 at 12:09 pm A Man truly to be admired. He set a high standard for those who follow. He lived and died for the freedom of his people. A Man who, with his family, suffered much, and forgave much, which could not have been easy to do. A lesson, no doubt, for all to follow. He kept his focus on what he wanted to achieve and won even though the cost was great. Never to be forgotten. May he receive his great reward from His Maker – God Bless him-Rest in Peace- Your labours were not in vain. Sincere Condolences to all the family. Our prayers are with you all.

W.Moses (Australia)

Spaza Tafeltyd December 9, 2013 at 12:51 pm http://t.co/E7bPCTgTmz

Francis Menge December 9, 2013 at 1:34 pm Everything has been said, so Rest In Peace Mandela. It feels good to type your name for the first time.

Herchel Clarke December 9, 2013 at 1:50 pm I would like to take this opportunity to say farewell to one of the greatest legends of all time. May your vision and wisdom continue to inspire the world for the better. RIP Madeba

Eugene December 9, 2013 at 1:59 pm Dear Madiba, You lived a selfless and visionary life for the sake of the future generation and transformed the lives of many people regardless of their nationality and status in society. Your vision, inspiration, humble, inclusive and collective leadership has left a legacy which will never be forgotten. You have been the Martin Luther of South Africa. You struggled against racial segregation and achieved it and transformed South Africa into a free society in which all human beings enjoy full rights and dignity. We shall always remember you Madiba. May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Blessings, Eugene

Mmarona Tabea Dichabe December 9, 2013 at 2:19 pm Our Father,Our Hero..No words can express how u changed our lives..Your humble and Loving spirit lives in us for alll eternety..May your soul rest in peace Tata..We love you

Caroline Comben December 9, 2013 at 2:58 pm Thank you for caring about your fellow man. You will be sorely missed. Hopefully your ideals will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.

Imad Al-Balhawan December 9, 2013 at 3:09 pm With deep sorrow, I heard the news of passing Mr. Nilson Mandella. He was a truly loving father and great leader served his country case and without hesitation he spread it to all the humanity. For sure his memories, speeches and thoughts will remain in our minds and soul ever after.

I am as Syrian citizen, express my deepest condolences to Mr. Mandella’s Family and to all the south Africa people and Government.

Barbara Gonzalez Castillo December 9, 2013 at 3:16 pm An inspiration to all man kind … your legacy will live forever! Rest in peace…

Barbara Gonzalez Castillo December 9, 2013 at 3:18 pm An inspiration to all mankind … your legacy will live forever! Rest in peace…

Jacinto José Estrela December 9, 2013 at 3:49 pm There is no way to think about great African names, without reminding Nelson Mandela. On its own merit, Nelson Mandela has room in the book of the whole humanity’s history, among those to whom our planet owes the most, on sacrifice for freedom and extreme dedication for social justice and progress. He was always been and will be a reference, concerning human resistance and endurance, as well as forgiveness and reconciliation, while struggling for the accomplishment of the legitimate dreams of our people. As we wish him to rest in peace, should we tribute eternal respect for this non-avoidable, unforgettable and extraordinary man of the modern history of Africa and the world. To his family, the South African people, my thoughts and sentiment at this sorrowful moment of his departure. Jacinto Estrela – Praia- Cape Verde

Marisol Gutierrez December 9, 2013 at 3:51 pm Thank you, Madiba, for so much. To let you go is to hold tighter to the vision of a united South Africa. You led the way; you knew we could. Thank you, Madiba, for showing us how to believe, how to be. Hamba kahle, Tata.

Raymond Manley December 9, 2013 at 3:54 pm The passing of one of the greatest human beings ever. RIP

Seun Agbelusi December 9, 2013 at 3:56 pm As a storyteller, I admire Mandela’s character journey, from an anti-hero to a hero, from a hero to a legend. As an African, I admire Mandela’s tenacity and courage to make his dream for Africa come true, I believe those of us left behind will stand on the shoulder of this great legend and take Africa to the next phase. As a human, I embrace Mandela’s message of Peace.

Thank you Madiba Nelson Mandela for coming and living a good example for us.

Rest In Peace.

Judith December 9, 2013 at 4:12 pm I’m a 16 year old girl that is totally indebted to uTata Nelson Mandela and all of our other freedom fighters. I’m completely saddened by his passing because it was my dream to meet him one day but I’m comforted to know that he’s resting now. I’ve been watching most of his tributes that have been playing on SABC and with all the people that are coming forward with their personal encounters with uTata it just gets one really emotional. I’m only 16 but I feel so attached, you’d swear I’m an old person. My love and respect for uTata is just way beyond description. His pictures are all heart warming and they just make me crack :( Condolences to the family,friends and those that worked with/for him. My children will know about uTata Nelson Mandela. No doubt about that. Much love. Judith F. Mahlangu.

D. Beverley Barnett December 9, 2013 at 4:13 pm Mr. Mandela was the epitome of grace under pressure, and ably demonstrated how one should live one’s life to maintain standards and values, in an age where compromising values for short-term gains is all too common. He has transitioned and we will miss him, but we thank God for his presence, and salute his life and his example.

Juliana Seleti December 9, 2013 at 4:43 pm Mr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a phenominal human being, who in so many ways shared his life with humanity. He taught us so much about life and the greatest lesson which I will aways remember about him is his ability to FORGIVE. He demonstrated the power of forgiveness and lived out its meaning by the way he related to His enemies. It is good that he lived to see some aspects of the freedom that he suffered for throughout his life.May South Africa and the world emulate the human ideals that he stood for. May his soul rest in peace.

Chrislene Naidoo December 9, 2013 at 4:47 pm Today, as I walked through the streets of Pretoria during my lunch hour, I had such a deep sense of sadness within me to think that the day I dreaded, the passing away of Mr. Mandela has arrived. This sadness that I feel is so deep leaving such a void more than the sadness I felt in December 1995, when I had visited Mr. Mandela’s tiny prison cell on Robben Island. I felt his pain more so when I read his book : “Long Walk to Freedom”, not so long thereafter. I hope and pray that every fellow South African continue to live their lives in peace and harmony, keeping this country, South Africa “UNITED” to enhance all that Mr. Mandela has fought for in the struggle for democracy and freedom for ALL. It was my dream always to meet two people in my lifetime, one is Ms Oprah Winfrey and the other was Mr. Nelson Mandela. Sadly, I will FINALLY get to meet OUR Great Leader this Thursday, however, under such a sad circumstance, as I plan to make my way for the viewing of the Father of our Nation’s body at the Union Buildings with my fellow colleagues. What a very sad day this will be for me as a South African. May God be with Mr. Mandela’s family; friends; relatives; his close commrades who fought with him in the struggle; ALL South African citizens who will feel this great sadness and deep sense of loss, as well as those around the Globe who have had close associations to feel the loss that we feel and not forgetting the lives that he has touched with his mere presence and with such humble interaction, the children of South Africa and around the Globe too. May his Soul rest in peace. Viva to the Father of our Nation, Mr. Nelson Mandela. Sadly missed by ALL.

Fraser Mathieson December 9, 2013 at 4:54 pm A lot of people are deemed ‘icons of history’, but Nelson Mandela was a true icon and legend. He continued fight never wavered to see black and white South Africans being seen as equal. Although only young when he was released from prison, that day did change the lives of many. He truly was a father of a nation, he not only changed his nation, but also changed the world.

Nelson Mandela – a man that can be proud of achievements and one that will be remembered for centuries to come. RIP Madiba Mandela

Fraser Stirling, United Kingdom

Tsering Wangay December 9, 2013 at 5:16 pm Your altruistic thoughts, tolerance and Bodhisattva actions will be a source of inspirations for now and all future generations. I have the faith that whereever you are or will be, there will be light and joy.

NICHOLAS ABAITEY December 9, 2013 at 6:16 pm As the fundamental truth it is by the grace,kindness and tender mercies of our heavenly father,Jehovah God that we are all enjoying life now and of course for the long life span EX-PRESIDENT NELSON ROHILAHLAH MANDELA who attained the age ninety-five before we heard the news of his death despite his critical health condition and weighty responsibilities of caring for his nuclear family,extended family,the people in his country,the Elders and the international communities. It seems each day has always been the opportune time to express our profound gratitude and allegiance to our Supreme Leader,Father and Almighty God who is true love,true justice,true power and the origin of all wisdom and of course the giver of every good gift and every perfect present despite the prevailing world crisis i.e. poverty,injustice,discrimination,hatred,violence against women and children and the climatic problems and then earthquakes. Hence once again thanks to our Grand Creator Jehovah God for enlightening this modern generation with the perseverance of EX-PRESIDENT NELSON ROHILAHLAH MANDELA of blessed memory now in the face of apathy, discrimination,wickedness and no respect for the rule of law and the fundamental rights.

Annlyn Mc Phie December 9, 2013 at 6:17 pm May your sacrifices continue to be an inspiration to this generation and the many to come – may your legacy live on. Rest in peace, Madiba.

ELH Hallarou December 9, 2013 at 6:39 pm Hi Mandela!

It takes a great deal for the biggest Man to fight for the most evident truth : dignity. but once the biggest man being makes it, it becames the biggest mystical achievement ever !

I think you would say “It is most about our weekness rather than me being heroic, so let you be what you should be , normal human being with dignity.”

Am I right? yes Iam.

Thank you Tata Madiba

Kayla December 9, 2013 at 6:50 pm I have been born into a world where that apartheid in South Africa was a period in history, thanks to Mr Mandela. Although I am from Britain I still wholeheartedly admire the struggles of Nelson Mandela. He has changed the world for the better, and while his passing is tragic we must remember all the good and try to incorporate this into our own lives. Let’s end all forms of discrimination globally for good. Let’s remove stigma and taboo surrounding important subjects – such as HIV /AIDS. Let’s make the world a better place in honour of Mr Mandela, a world he can look at from the heavens and be proud of. “Blessed are the peacekeepers for they shall be called the children of God “. Rest in peace Madiba, good night and God bless.

A .Z.Humayoon Aslamy December 9, 2013 at 6:58 pm There are couple of times that I have been touched by other people’s death and I must say this occasion is the most difficult one. We all die ultimately but the death someone that you admired and even loved. It defy my ability to say anything worthy of his character or status. He was the symbol of struggle, the leader of a just cause and despite numerous prediction by his opponents that the river of blood will flow in south Africa and there will be massive executions and retribution, look at South Africa now, a beacon of democracy and hope for the African continent and shining example of how one man can change the destiny and course of a country. He could have stayed as president for the rest of his life like Robert Mugabi and other African leaders who loves to cling to power, but he showed by example and served only one term only. I would like to see how many people will attend Mugabi’s funeral, I doubt any. As South African preparing to say final goodbye to him, he is missed and loved by all peace loving people of the world. He is not belongs to South Africa he is belong to the more than nsix billion inhabitants of this planet.

Nick Dobson December 9, 2013 at 7:07 pm Nelson Mandela/ Madiba- you have inspired me for my whole life, and you will always be a inspiration to me. Not only did you help heal the beautiful land that is South Africa, you did it in such an amazing way that destroyed one of the worst institutions in modern history. You were a remarkable man and you will always be the in the spirit of the rainbow nation that you helped create. I know that it was not just you alone, so many others fought and stood up for what was right. Nelson Mandela My hero- Amandla

Ethel Lawhon December 9, 2013 at 8:51 pm WE JOIN THE WORLD IN GRIEVING THE LOSS OF A GREAT HUMANITARIAN

Cynthia Vause December 9, 2013 at 8:57 pm I join the world in grieving the loss of a great humanitarian

Bizani Mohamed December 9, 2013 at 8:57 pm أحر التعازي من مواطن تونسي أعجب وأحب واقتدى بالبطل العالمي نيلسن مانديلا. سأعمل على الحذو بالمبادئ والقيم التي تعلمتها منه ما حييت وسألقنها لأبنائي وأحفادي إن شاء الله

Marc C. Pipkin December 9, 2013 at 8:58 pm I thank God for a man who dedicated his life so that others could live to be free and to be an example of love. There aren’t many names that go on this list of men and women who gave all so that we can have. It’s truly the love of God that drove Jim to do what he did!

Rest In Peace as you enter into eternal life!

Ramona Sinclair December 9, 2013 at 11:04 pm When the Lord asked, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” you stood up and answered Him, Tata Madiba, and we all heard you. And we can never un-hear your voice, your actions, your heartfelt, soul-driven commitment to the utmost dignity of human life. To have been graced to be on this planet at the same time as you will forever leave an indelible impression on all our lives. And so it is, dearest servant of the Lord. We are grateful; we are eternally and deeply grateful.

Anne Erde December 9, 2013 at 11:15 pm Dearest Nelson Mandela, Your revolutionary fire, your intelligence, your strength, your perseverance, and your warmth inspire us all around the globe. Your work will be continued. Peace and Blessings to you. Anne Erde U.S.A.

Iréne Södergren December 9, 2013 at 11:36 pm The world will not be the same …. I wish you where still alive – and healthy, maybe 30 years younger and still the president of South Africa. Rest in peace, you one of the largest men I know!

Kenta Miyama December 9, 2013 at 11:53 pm My deepest sympathies to the family of Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa. K. Miyama, Austria

Dr Yvonne Styles December 10, 2013 at 12:10 am Madiba,

Your humanity is as large as the universe. Your love is as deep as the ocean. Your example as a leader will live on forever and I am grateful to you for all you have given us. Rest now Madiba. I will see you again. Love to you and gratitude to you and your family for your many sacrifices. My deep respect.

carolann bagan December 10, 2013 at 12:18 am sleep well Mr Mandela. your long walk home is finally at an end

Deborah Daley December 10, 2013 at 12:25 am I was a racist ignorant white child. I recall being slapped around the face as a tiny child by my father for asking what was wrong with a white women loving a black man after he called her nigger meat. I recall my brother befriending the only black boy in our area regardless to this. I sang your song and jumped up and down with joy singing for your freedom before I knew who you were. I watched with immense fascination when you were released. I didn’t see a hard angry bitter man. I saw the closest human being to a God in leadership yet. I watched someone teach me how to feel ashamed of myself for thinking and feeling discrimination. Mandela, you changed me, you ended my condemnation and started my love. I hope your passing is a long hard message to all the haters. I hope the UK continues to grow in tolerance, I hope Africa does too. Im scared. I don’t want to see Africa fight, commit genocide. I see it everywhere in all countries and I find it so depressing. I don’t fear death, I fear living. I fear it much less and feel so much healing when I think of Nelson Mandela, your Madibu xx God Bless you Mandela, God Bless you Africa, don’t follow Zumas boar killing it will take you to hate, remember Madibus legacy!!!!

Martin Robert Hughes December 10, 2013 at 1:14 am Your long hard walk on earth finally ended still our march for human rights and dignity will go on!

Martin Robert Hughes December 10, 2013 at 1:17 am Your long hard walk on earth finally ended still our march for human rights and dignity will go on! Right on!

Jim and Elizabeth Church December 10, 2013 at 1:30 am The world has lost a wonderful person. We need a lot more people like Nelson Mandela in this world. RIP Mr Mandela!

Margaret Mbogoni December 10, 2013 at 1:31 am May your smile be a light of insipration for those that feel hopeless.

Jim and Elizabeth Church December 10, 2013 at 1:34 am The world has lost a wonderful man. We need more people like Nelson Mandela. RIP Mr Mandela!

Marisa Bettencourt Mateus December 10, 2013 at 2:18 am À família enlutada os meus mais profundos sentimentos de pesar. Sinto-me previlegiada por ter sido nascida nesta época e poder testemunhar o legado de Nelson Mandela. Para mim e para todos nos, serás sempre o nosso President, motivo de orgulho, razão de admiração; Admiração pela coragem, pela dignidade, pela benevolência. Mandela foi é e será sempre um exemplo a seguir. Descanse em paz.

Lesa R. Walker December 10, 2013 at 2:55 am Our lives are like the wind with amazing power to set a beautiful course or destroy it. When we witness a person using his life to move mountains for good in the world, for peace, we have witnessed the majesty of our humanity: Thank you Nelson Mandela!

Morgan Badiuk December 10, 2013 at 3:30 am A wonderful soul.

Vish December 10, 2013 at 4:05 am He was firstly human, full of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. RIP Nelson Mandela.

Vish Guyana

Osei Mosi carl ANthony Browne December 10, 2013 at 4:13 am I want to thank God for sending a person like you to teach us , what it is like to live very humble and how one person can make a vast change in the world. You will forever be missed. Rest in Eternal Pace.

Howard Styles December 10, 2013 at 4:29 am Ghandi was before my time, I was too young to appreciate King , God blessed me with Nelson Mandela as an adult. Only once in a lifetime men like Mandela is given to us.

Howard Styles

Jean-Baptiste Rubeya December 10, 2013 at 4:45 am Thank you Mr. Mandela for everything from teaching us the lesson of forgiveness, the nullity of adversity, giving back the African continent the sense of pride, the hope for a brighter future and showing the fact that the wisdom and creativity are not exclusive to other continents.

wendy gaviria December 10, 2013 at 4:51 am esperemos que tengamos conciencia

Sam Kahuila December 10, 2013 at 5:52 am You are a shining example of perseverance, strength, intelligence, conciliation, and peace. You taught the world to stand up for what is right, and to never give in to injustice and tyranny. May those lessons remain fresh in the minds and heart of all the citizen’s of this planet. Thank you and rest well!

Ulla Westholm December 10, 2013 at 7:49 am Om alla människor var som Mandela skulle vår värld se helt annorlunda ut. Ingen ondska, ingen orättvisa och ingen avundsjuka

blaine macdonald December 10, 2013 at 9:16 am to the mandela family , my deepest condolences on the world’s humanitarian and i just want you to know that you are not alone because i too lost a very special friend from blaine macdonald

christian schmitt December 10, 2013 at 10:11 am love, peace and unity laotse, jesus, buddah, dalai lama, mandela ….

Victoria Kumalo-Ben December 10, 2013 at 10:13 am I would like to Thank You Mr Nelson Mandela for the lasting impact you made, I am privileged to have lived in such a Historic Era , where I have Felt and Experienced your love , passion and great unselfish giving so we could enjoy the privileges that we enjoy today. Victoria Kumalo-Ben.

The South African Muslim Network December 10, 2013 at 10:27 am CONDOLENCES | NELSON MANDELA

The South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) joins all South Africans in mourning the passing of Mr Nelson Mandela, an icon in South Africa and across the world, and an inspiration to so many of us.

We convey our most sincere condolences to his family, the African National Congress and South Africans at large.

Madiba left a legacy second to none in the annals of South African history and although his unshakeable passion to eradicate injustice brought him and his family much strife and suffering, he remained steadfast in championing in the cause of the poor, powerless and down-trodden.

To him justice and equality were indivisible and had to be relentlessly pursued irrespective of race, colour or creed and without fear or favour. Remarkably, he never deviated from the consistent, principled response to injustice and inhumanity throughout his life even when it was politically “incorrect”.

We can all take solace from the fact that his was a life truly well lived in the service of his fellow beings.

The best tribute we can give to Madiba would be to emulate many of the principles he stood for, to speak truth to power and to continue to build on his legacy of non- racism and equality for all.

Dr Faisal Suliman Chairperson

Tayeb December 10, 2013 at 10:39 am لم أتصور عالم بدون مانديلا، علمتنا كيف نعيش في تسامح وحب وفي عالم أفضل نطمح فيه للازدهار والرقي روحك لن تفارقنا سنتحلى بحكمتك وسيبقى عملك ونضالك يلهم اعمالنا وفي كل خطوة نخطوها نم في هدوء وسلام

Danièle CHARLET December 10, 2013 at 11:00 am A cet être unique, tellement humain. Une nouvelle lumière brillera dans le ciel pour le monde.

Ron Raz December 10, 2013 at 12:02 pm We are so lucky he lived to be 95, making everyday count in the quest to make the world realize that there is only one race, the human race.

K.A.Gaemers December 10, 2013 at 12:08 pm With deep respect for what he has done for peace.freedom and reconciliation.

May he rest in peace!

With deep condolences for his family.

Chryss Alexzander December 10, 2013 at 12:09 pm Thank You

Tsholofelo Dibob December 10, 2013 at 12:45 pm We will always miss you for what you have done for South Africans, Africans and world at large.

MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PEACE

Kim Gill December 10, 2013 at 12:55 pm Dearest Madiba; thank you for blessing our world with your presence, and for the rich legacy you have left. Thank you also for all the lessons you have taught us, and long may we learn from them and continue your wonderful work! My heartfelt condolences to all the Mandela family and loved ones. Love and blessings to you all. Kim, Nottingham, UK.

Hafeeza Osman December 10, 2013 at 12:59 pm Rest in peace Tata Mandela. May your legacy of forgiveness, peace and unity between all people irrespective of colour or creed live on forever.

Ravin Jugdav December 10, 2013 at 1:30 pm To the Mandela Family and all South Africans: we have lost a great man and the Founding Father of our nation. May he rest in peace and may his beloved family be spared the grief and pain of his passing. From the Jugdav Family Saudi Arabia/Cape Town.

Reginald Walker December 10, 2013 at 2:09 pm God rus jou siel Madiba

Christoph Fischer December 10, 2013 at 2:25 pm Thank you Nelson Mandela, thank your for your testimony. Nobody changed Africa and the world like you, using nothing but the power of will, forgiveness and wisdom. I´m born in 1964 – as a young man, while we danced the Mandela-Concerts in Europe I was aware that it was almost my full lifetime, he was imprisoned. And still he had the strength to move forward and do great change. Today is a sad day for all of us – Nkosi sikel´iAfrika, – Chris from Germany

Sundar Mathimaran December 10, 2013 at 2:46 pm The world lost the Lion of the Africa who never bowed before the arrogance & imperialism, and enlightened the world with thoughts of non-violence & equal rights you live in our heart till the Earth lives! Rest in peace great soul lived during our era i feel proud that we have the previllage to know about you and live in earth during your time.world will follow your legacy where you left we love you and pray god for peace.. Its a loss for whole world more than that of Africa! At the end of the day we proudly we are grandsons of our own MADIBA!!! WE MISS YOU!

Mamba December 10, 2013 at 2:59 pm An angel sent by God to S.A, siyambulela uBawo ngokhulula wena uzokhulula ilizwe lethu.Bekunga bangalanda emkhondweni wakho,kowu,Hamba kahle!Aah Dalibhunga.Frm:Mamba Family

Lorraine Knights December 10, 2013 at 3:01 pm A truly great and wonderful man, my thoughts are with his family and his country in their sad loss.

Gilles Cotrell SANDZOU December 10, 2013 at 3:09 pm Nelson Rohilahla Mandela will forever be in our hearts An inspiration for all mankind One of the greatest men of all time I shall personally remember Tata Madiba for the courageous leader, the compassionate soul and the loving man that he was; one who overcame unbearable suffering and defeated systematic hatred to become the father of a free country for all to live and thrive on My heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family

Ali Alibhai December 10, 2013 at 3:19 pm Madiba made it clear to us that, No matter how the EVIL tries to break you, if you follow your own conviction that only GOOD will be of help to you & your people regardless of colour, caste or creed. He met the EVIL with TOLERANCE and later FORGAVE THE EVIL OPPRESSORS. He overcame THE TEMPTATIONS of HATRED and disarmed the EVIL through his genorisity leading to reconciliation. Madiba indeed was ‘ONE OF A KIND’. Rest In Peace MADIBA. May your Soul be blessed.

Ali Alibhai December 10, 2013 at 3:44 pm MADIBA made it clear to us that, No matter how hard The EVIL PEOPLE try to BREAK you, YOU follow and ACT upon your own conviction that only GOOD will prevail and help your people regardless of colour, caste or creed. RIP MADIBA.

Adam Campbell December 10, 2013 at 3:43 pm Madiba, You have given this world so much and you changed the world. Lord you have given us a modern prophet. May Madiba’s family walk in his footsteps, and may the world follow the steps he has lad down for us and make this world a Mandela world

Renate Hogarth December 10, 2013 at 4:08 pm Nelson Mandela, you have been and, in my mind, you will always be a great leader. If more people were like you, the world would be a much better place. God bless you, my heart goes out to your family. Rest in peace.

Lars Nieper December 10, 2013 at 4:15 pm South Africa has lost not only its greatest son, but the whole world its greatest icon in the struggle for equality. I hope to see the day where every man finished the work which Nelson Mandela has begun as exemplary.

Madiba, thank you for all and we will miss you so much.

Catherine Fleming December 10, 2013 at 4:21 pm In remembrance of one of the greatest men to have walked this earth. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. Rest in peace MADIBA.

Carlos Garat December 10, 2013 at 4:32 pm In 1978, as I distributed small leaflets with the simple text “Free Nelson Mandela” in the streets of Stockholm, I knew Madiba was one of the greatest in our time. But I couldn’t believe I would have the joy to see him free nor apartheid defeated during my lifetime. His freedom and the victory of his people’s struggles is one of the foundations of the new, just world we still have to build for the XXIst century. Thanks, Madiba!

Elizabeth Chikerema December 10, 2013 at 4:40 pm My condolences to the Madiba family, to the whole of South Africa and to the whole world. Its a loss never to be filled by anyone. There will never be another personlike him. We thank him for such great lessons from his life.

May his soul rest in peace.

Elizabeth & family

Valerie Goddard December 10, 2013 at 4:42 pm Dear Peace Maker, now it is your time to rest in peace.

Trevor Tayleur December 10, 2013 at 4:43 pm May your spirit of reconciliation and humility live on in the Rainbow Nation.

Peiso aka Pee Jay December 10, 2013 at 5:11 pm Nelson Mandela our father our leader our light… Our freedom fighter our president our hero…. You’ll always be LOVED R.I.P TATA MADIBA

Lekau Mamabolo December 10, 2013 at 5:14 pm Tata Nelson Mandela you have touched so many lives in many different ways, you might be dead but your spirit will forever live, I will always remember your great works, you fought and in the end you were victorius. Today I’m free just because of you and because of you I know that freedom does not mean doing whatever I want whenever I want but freedom is having the power and all the tools to do what I ought to do. Let your soul rest in peace. Thank you. Lekau Mamabolo

Lesley Cheeves December 10, 2013 at 5:53 pm Huge sympathy to the family at this difficult time, I am sure mixed with grief comes the greatest of pride also. Respect!!

Monica and Vincent Skermand December 10, 2013 at 6:18 pm Our deepest sympathy to the Mandela Family. Thank you Tata Madiba for everything you’ve done for our country. We going to miss you. Rest In Peace.

Daniel Goedhuis December 10, 2013 at 7:24 pm Big trees never die even when they fall. I will always remember that tree with all the good leaves that spread over the world.

Laurie Treuhaft December 10, 2013 at 7:55 pm As a staff member in the English Translation Service at Headquarters, I was assigned, with my friend and colleague, Giovanna Suhl,to write a summary of Nelson Mandela’s statement to the Special Committee against Apartheid on June 22, 1990. Everyone at Headquarters was outside in front of the Secretariat on that warm, sunny day, waiting to greet him when he arrived. The drive in front of Headquarters was literally teeming with staff members; the only people still inside the Secretariat building were leaning out the windows waving signs and banners of welcome. I will never forget the excitement in the General Assembly Hall both before and during Nelson Mandela’s address. Giovanna and I are both retired now and back at Headquarters on a temporary assignment for the sixty-eighth session of the General Assembly. We remember that day as a highlight of our time at the United Nations. Until Giovanna told me last week, I had never known all these years that the reason we had been lucky enough to land that assignment was because she had requested it!

Rasha December 10, 2013 at 8:13 pm Madiba, There will never be another! you will be always in our heart and mind .RIP

John McCabe December 10, 2013 at 8:25 pm My life has been one, inspired the most revered freedom fighter of me entire life. I have along with my family watched Nelson Mandela fight for peace and equality regardless of colour or creed. I will ensure my children will never forget a man who put everything above himself !!

God bless you Nelson Mandela. R.I.P.

Jane Petrie December 10, 2013 at 8:30 pm If only the other leaders like Mr Zuma and Mr Mugabe could have learnt the lessons the how be be humble like Madiba was who loved all races, no matter what the world threw at him. Mandela and de Klerk handed us reconciliation. Unfortunately this isn’t practiced now, as we still fear for our families and friends lives. Zimbabwe and South Africa still have along way to go. The crowd did the right thing in booing them. Thank you to President Obama, who spoke the right words at the right time. A child of South Africa and Zimbabwe.

John McCabe December 10, 2013 at 8:32 pm My life has been one, inspired by the most revered freedom fighter of my entire life. I have along with my family watched Nelson Mandela fight for peace and equality regardless of colour or creed. I will ensure my children will never forget a man who put everything above himself !!

Steve Alayon December 10, 2013 at 8:45 pm n my country, the Dominican Republic, we are currently living a constant struggle. And I’m very embarrased for saying that I’m dominican because at the moment there’s an new kind of “apartheid” law applied against the National Haitians which are currently Dominican residents.

Nelson Mandela showed the world how to embrace nations. How to live together each other: White, Black, Jew, Chinese, etc, etc. And I’d love that the Madiba Foundation make contact with the Dominican Republic Government to make some changes and accept the Haitians who are being prosecuted in my country.

Rest in Peace Mandela. We still have a long way to end racism in the world.

Thank you so much for you to open the eyes of almost all the leaders in the world!!.

Maria Teresa Guillen barroso December 10, 2013 at 9:05 pm Que decir de una persona tan maravillosa como fue y siempre sera NELSON MANDELA. Cuando supe que fallecio senti como si una parte de mi se hubiera ido con el . Mi mas sentido pesamen a su familia un cordial saludo

Renee Coleman December 10, 2013 at 9:09 pm Dear Madiba , beloved Mendela,

We thank God for your life, your sacrifices and contributions. Your endless battle against the oppression, racism, and injustices.

We thank you for your love for your enemies and your power of forgiveness demonstrated not by words but by your deeds.

Dear Madiba, our fighter for peace, we shall miss you, always…… sis. Renee Coleman, USA

Odette Gaud December 10, 2013 at 10:31 pm R.I.P. Madiba, You gave up so much. for that I am forever grateful. You have through THE STRUGGLE created a land I am so proud to call home. Your passing has touched every corner of the earth and you shall never be forgotten as you have earned you place in history. You are an inspiration to me, my children and all of man kind … your legacy will live on forever! Rest in peace. MADIBA

Chipo Muzorewa December 10, 2013 at 10:42 pm Madiba,

Your inspiration lives on.

Lanfia Kondeh December 10, 2013 at 11:05 pm Rest in peace our Hero, Freedom Fighter and an example to us all

Eoin Campbell December 10, 2013 at 11:44 pm Rip nelson Mandela great man and huge Man Utd fan you will be truly missed

RIP NELSON MANDELA

David Barrow December 11, 2013 at 12:03 am Thoughts and prayers to the Mandela family on the loss of their loved one. The world has lost a leading light, in this time of darkness. R.I.P Madiba

Daniel December 11, 2013 at 2:12 am Madiba Mandela, thank you! Your life is a path to follow, a path that meets and transcends the highest standards of every religion and every code of honor and nobility. Madiba Mandela, you have been a Christ-like figure, a bodhisattva, a saint, a beacon, a MAN. Thank you Madiba, I shall never forget you and I shall strive to follow your example. Rest in peace, Madiba, your name is now Eternal Love.

Elaine Lowe December 11, 2013 at 3:29 am My condolences to the family of Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa. A great man who inspired the people of this world like no other, who gave selflessly for the sake of others and whose legacy will remain forever. He was the greatest man in my lifetime an touched me like no other ever will. God Bless madiba. RIP

Dalyce Newby December 11, 2013 at 4:21 am The world has lost a great man. A man who inspired others to do better. A man who instilled hope where there was little. A man who brought people from all races and walks of life together. He will be greatly missed.

ROSILAND HORTON SANDERS December 11, 2013 at 5:02 am From Rosiland Horton Sanders, Annie K.Stokes and Nancy Bailey. We are sending our condolences to the Mandela Family. Our prayers are with you doing this difficult time. May GOD continue to bless all of you.

Petra Schmidt December 11, 2013 at 5:30 am Nelson Mandela has proven it: Never give up. If you believe in change, it can happen, eventually. – Nelson Mandela: One of the most inspiring personalities ever, he will never be forgotten.

Christine Akudit December 11, 2013 at 7:57 am Tata, your stories, wisdom and love will live on for many generations to come. RIP

Tasneem esau December 11, 2013 at 8:15 am I want to thank you Tata for all that you have done for us and our country. May you rest in peace. You will surely be missed and never forgotten.

Sarah Anyoti December 11, 2013 at 8:30 am My heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family, the people of South Africa and the peoples of the world. We have lost a great man! Nelson Mandela touched our lives in many different ways, he inspired us through his actions, he taught us lessons of hope, courage, determination and selflessness. The best tribute we can pay to him, is to make sure his ideals live on. Each of us must stand up and take the courage, the courage to fight for freedom, peace, justice, and equality for all peoples of the world. Rest in peace, we will never forget you.

Benjamin Mattondo Banda December 11, 2013 at 9:36 am I personally benefited from the fruits of your struggle. The grace to forgive your oppressors is the most amazing lesson I will remember you for. Your life on earth was a blessing to millions of South Africans who loved you dearly, and to billions of the world including me who admired you. Your star in heaven will shine the brightest in your deserved eternal rest. Hamba kahle Tata.

Mutanda Tinashe December 11, 2013 at 10:53 am It’s indeed a sad loss, not only to Tata’s clan or to South Africa but to the whole world.You were indeed one in 7 Billion.Your soul and character will be with us yet we will see your body nomore.At 95 we can say indeed a life WELL TRAVELLED but NO we cannot be sated with a life without you.Seing you on TV last night I could not help but have an ouporing of grief about this sad loss, the Charisma you exuded,the utmost control and unrivalled life skills and bottomless knowledge.Go well Madiba.We want to emulate you,if only we can mange a fraction of your deity and stamina then the whole world will be at peace.I love you Madiba.

Samantha Trammell December 11, 2013 at 11:39 am One of the greatest men to ever walk the earth, Nelson Mandela, we salute you from New york City. Rest in peace, its all in Gods hands now… The loss is great but we smile so joyously that we had you… God Bless You Mr. Mandela, one of a kind. <3

Kudzai K December 11, 2013 at 11:42 am You life was an inspiration to many and your life was lived well. I salute you and thank God for your life and all that you did to dismantle an oppressive system and to usher in a new South Africa. Tata Madiba I salute you and may your soul rest in peace. Hamba kahle qawe lamaqawe!!

Susan Rothschild Magidson Goldenberg December 11, 2013 at 4:23 pm Our world has lost a great man.He was the icon for all of us who struggled against apartheid.He was the father of our rainbow nation.We will miss you.

Susan Rothschild Magidson Goldenberg December 11, 2013 at 4:28 pm Our world has lost a great man.He was the icon for all of us who struggled against apartheid.He was the father of our rainbow nation.We wil miss you always and profoundly.

Ana Maria Alvarez December 11, 2013 at 8:02 pm When I visited South Africa for the first time in 2007, I could hear many sad stories from those who had been deprived by the Apartheid system. I was frightened. I visited a township and realized that there was a big economic and social agenda to change his country. Then, in 2012 I went back, visited Soweto and realized that Mandela’s views about changes in society are valid not only for South Africa but for the whole world. They will remain universally valid. I just want to share in this occasion, one of Mandela’s quotations: “There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountain top of our desires”.

heather heading December 11, 2013 at 8:11 pm Sir,a true human being which showed all of us lesser mortals the true nature of humanity, thankyou for your compassion,humility,and bravery. The world is poorer now. God rest you.

Annie Ralaiarisoa December 11, 2013 at 9:40 pm Thank you for being an inspiration. Rest in Peace Madiba.

Rhinesha Dayanand December 11, 2013 at 10:29 pm To the father of country, people say lead by example. You have shown us what a true leader is capable of. And for us children to learn and live by your honour.

Ivan Cuddihy December 11, 2013 at 11:54 pm . An inspiration – he led only by example – To use my native Gaelic ” Ni raibh a leitheid anise aris” .. His likes will not be here again. May the leaders in South Africa and around the world carry on the flame of freedom lit and nourished by Madiba. May he rest in peace …

Victor & Marian Diana King December 12, 2013 at 1:41 am Mandela was a true gentleman and a true humananitar3ian. A true light of the world has gone out. Most people at his memorial service yesterday behaved with respect unfortunately it seems our Prime Minister behaved in an inapropriate manner. I feel it is my duty to offer the condolences and appologies of the British people for any offence caused to the Mandela family andd the South African people. My family and myself would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of this great man.

Angela Hedges December 12, 2013 at 6:50 am Mandela was a great man. There is now one less truly good person on this earth. We will never see anyone else like him. May he now rest in peace.

Pritha Foolchand December 12, 2013 at 6:53 am My condolences to the Madiba family. The world has lost a great being. R.I.P Madiba

Frank D'Amico December 12, 2013 at 7:12 am My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of one of the greatest advocates for peace in the 20th Century. May the world learn from your life experience and may all future leaders aspire to be like you. The peace of the Lord be with you, Rest in Peace.

Carol Collins December 12, 2013 at 5:27 pm Nelson you would have not wanted in truth all this fuss & fancy. But we cannot control from the grave just leave a legacy Which you did and with dignity, forgiveness and servitude. I pray to Our Lord God that your example will reign in this world bent on superficiality. Every blessing to those who really did know your heart – like the poor beggar and not the rich & famous. Love, Carol Collins

Doreen Thenga December 12, 2013 at 1:06 pm RIP Dr Nelson Mandela….you did so much for the nation, we will always remember you….your smile!!!

Robala ka khutso Madiba….ya gago tema o e kgathile!!!

MAUREEN-RUTH BURGESS December 12, 2013 at 2:13 pm “OH LION OF AFRICA WHO ROARED FROM THE DEEP NIGHT, YOU WALKED THE JUNGLE OF ADVERSITY BRAVING CAPTORS OF JUSTICE AND RIGHTS. YOU WALKED LONG AND ROARED HARD FROM PLACES UNSEEN AND STILL YOU KEPT FAITH AND STRENGTH FOR THE SAKE OF THE DREAM.

YOU WALKED IN THE SUN AND THE DARK FELL AWAY – WE NOW WALK IN THAT SUN IN YOUR SWEET MEMORY. THIS IS NOT ‘GOODBYE’ TATA MADIBA FOR THE WALK STILL WALKS ON; WE SHALL HONOUR YOUR NAME AT THE BREAK OF EACH DAWN.

OH LION OF SOUTH AFRICA NOW SLEEP ‘NEATH LIFE’S TREE WATCH OVER US PLEASE- THOSE YOU FOUGHT TO SET FREE.”

Rolf Obertreis December 12, 2013 at 4:17 pm I pay tribute to the greatest son not only South Africa has ever had. Madiba was extremely courageous and on the other hand extremely warmheartedly. And the best example in every respect for everybody.

Thank you so much.

Rest in Peace

Rolf Obertreis/Giessen/Germany

Judith Bailey December 13, 2013 at 5:57 am RIP Mr Mandela. This world will never be the same without. Thank you for helping to make changes so this world can and will be a better place. You will be missed.

Kholofelo Manaswe December 13, 2013 at 7:49 am may your legacy live on and may our youth take a few leaves of your tree of life. you have made us the free people that we are today.

Tunia Mbedzi December 13, 2013 at 7:54 am Thank you Tata for giving us a free and peaceful South Africa, will continue to walk on your footstep and lead by your example, for being forgiving and loving. May your Soul Rest in Peace

Tana Botha December 13, 2013 at 8:40 am When a star is extinguished, it’s light remains visible across the universe for millennia. Nelson Mandela has passed away, but the light he has ignited in the world, will keep shining forever and ever. Thank you, Madiba, for letting your light shine so remarkably bright. The world has lost it’s greatest citizen.

Elaine Botha December 13, 2013 at 8:46 am Dear Madiba – and once again you unite our nation – the whole world! You have done what all of us should do: Forgive!! Now I will never meet you in person and that is my biggest regret. I will always remember your smile, beautiful shirts, love for all mankind, the Madiba-jive and much, much more. Thank you for everything you did to make things better for all. Rest in peace, you deserve it. Love you, Mr. President

Ruben & Lize Ballesteros December 13, 2013 at 8:50 am Thank you, Madiba, for your forgiveness and humanity that you showed. You were a great leader and a great person. May your legacy and what you stood for, live on in the hearts of all people across the world. Rest in peace.

Shannon- Lee Le Roux December 13, 2013 at 1:53 pm To the Father of our Nation,

Thank you for everything that you have done for our country, you make be proud to be South African. You are and will always be the Greatest Leader that have walked the earth. Tata you have sacrificed so much for the cause of Freedom, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You make me want to better myself and serve others and I will strive towards this everyday.

Reast in Peace Tata, Respect & Love Shannon- Lee Le Roux – Cape Town

Cyrill Ibrahim December 13, 2013 at 6:09 pm Thank you, Tata of the World. You are an inspiration and example of the way I would like to share as you did.

Munozovepi Gwata December 13, 2013 at 6:40 pm To the great father of Africa your legacy will live forever and so will spirit in our hearts. Love Muno♥♥

Trisha December 13, 2013 at 7:56 pm In a time when humanity continues to invest heavily in military expenditures, it is hopeful to see the entire world moved by one whose principles, values and life inspire us: dignity, justice, respect, negotiation, reconciliation, and building an inclusive future for everyone, that is true leadership.

Renee Gay December 13, 2013 at 8:23 pm I was 20 years old when he was released from prison all the way here in Barbados I waited to hear and see what he would do. The fact that he handled himself with dignity, grace and great temperance is a mark to the character of the man he was. How he went on to pull his people black and white together was and is truly inspiring and it touched and still touches me to have been around during this time in history. He will be missed. My heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends and the nation of South Africa. If only we had many more like him

M. Angela and David Nettleship December 14, 2013 at 1:28 am A great man has lived and died after giving the world something to learn about a being a good human being. Who didn’t think he was better and greater than his brother or sister.

Celine Paramunda December 14, 2013 at 4:34 am To the Madiba family and the people of S.Africa Mr. Nelson Mandela, a great man of this century has given us a great example. Today I used one of his messages at the United Nations,: “Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings”. let us continue his fights to er-raise poverty from the world. condolences! May his soul rest in Peace! Celine Paramunda Medical Mission Sisters

ELEANOR HAYWARD December 14, 2013 at 3:13 pm I remember as a Glaswegian Glasgow City Council named one of our streets Mandela Place and gave him freedom of the city of Glasgow whilst he was still incarcerated. A man of peace and so much forgiveness for the years spent in prison. Truly a unique individual and never forgotten.

Caroline Vala December 14, 2013 at 8:49 pm Madiba you will be missed, but not forgotten. Le monde a cruelement besoin d’hommes aussi bon et courageux que toi <3

Eric Werner December 15, 2013 at 1:43 am Nelson Mandela was my hero because he overcame not only adversity but also hatred and revenge and led his country and his people on a path to peace and justice for all. Much remains to be done in South Africa to allow every citizen to share into the opportunities and the prosperity of this wonderful country which I had an opportunity to visit from my native Germany. May Nelson Mandela’s example guide current and future generations to continue his work and make South Africa a better place every day. However, Nelson Mandela’s legacy far transcends his own country and I feel humbled to have shared time on earth with him to witness what he has achieved. May his spirit and wisdom inspire leaders of the world and every human being to find ways so that people can live together and overcome what separates them. I do hope that we can all take a moment to think about his life and what we can learn for our own personal lives, how we can deal with conflicts large and small, how we can listen, understand and forgive, and bring people together for a greater common good. I was so happy that God allowed him to live out a long life in dignity after so many years had been taken away from him. My deep condolences are with his family and friends and the people of South Africa. May Nelson Mandela rest in peace. I know he will never be forgotten and his achievements and his spirit will live forever.

Rosemarie Jae December 15, 2013 at 3:10 am Mr. Mandela, you were named ‘Troublemaker” by your mother, but such a transformed troublemaker that it grieves me to know you are no longer in the world. We now call you Peacemaker, Freedom Fighter, Humanity Helper and a friend to those with no voice. I pray that your legacy will continue to live and make a real difference in the future of Africa the continent, and that many Nelsons will be born, raised and reared into the ‘care for others.’ Thank you for your suffering, and thank you for your healing. It has brought the world an unmatched truth: man’s road is never alone, and there is always one in the darkness who needs his help.

Richard Bestel de Lézongard December 15, 2013 at 8:10 am Thank you Madiba for helping God to mould our country into the largely thriving nation that it is today. It is unlikely that the example that you were will ever be forgotten.

Theresa Strømnes Bestel de Lézongard December 15, 2013 at 8:15 am God bless you Tata.

God bless Africa Guard Her children, Guide Her leaders, And give her peace.

I pray that this prayer, your legacy, lives on.

Hamba kahle Madiba.

Jabulile Maluleka December 15, 2013 at 9:02 am Although I went to the Union Buildings on Thursday and Friday, I couldn’t see you Tata, but you will always remain in my heart. I have learnt how to truly love people and how to forgive from you. I will follow your example. Thank you for all that you have done for all of us in South Africa and the world. I feel blessed to have lived in your world and time.

Lala ngoxolo Tata. Will always love you and look up to you.

Chifuto Shamano December 15, 2013 at 10:38 am Tata Mandela. You came into the world, when your people needed you most. And as was the script of your life, you played the part. You played it so well, the entire world stepped in tune to your song. Now you leave us because your script has come to an end. But we, all, shall dance the song, and teach it to our children, through the ages to come.

Mo'ath Aljabri December 15, 2013 at 12:00 pm Palestine and palestinians’ tears will never stop crying for your leaving TATA MADIBA, You will be always the light in our freedom path, your soul is immortal in our lives ! We all love you … R.I.P TATA MADIBA

Mo'ath Aljabri December 15, 2013 at 12:06 pm لن ننساك أبداً يا شمعة تنير درب الرية رحلت بجسدك، لكن روح ستبقى خالدة في قلوبنا ابتسامتك ستبقى حية في ذاكرتنا شكراً لله لأنه أعطى العالم (نيلسون مانديلا) ، لن ننساك أبداً من فلسطين مع كل الحب … ارقد بسلام .. مانديلا

mrs sharon solomons December 16, 2013 at 1:33 am Nelson Mandela achieved democracy for South Africa through peaceful means. He displayed the utmost dignity on his release from 27 years of incarceration. We will not see his like again. He was a true icon of our times. My thoughts and prayers are with his widow Graca Machel and the Mandela family at this very sad time

Tamzyn Hercules December 16, 2013 at 11:28 am Even through your death, you have the ability to unite nations- as evident of what you strived for your whole life. We appreciate what you’ve done, you have proven to the world that one man’s love, compassion and willpower can indeed change a country- our country- and the world’s perspective. We love you. Peace be with you and your family. You were without doubt God’s Gift to the world. Thank you for allowing him to use you in this great way.

Tamzyn Hercules December 16, 2013 at 11:31 am without doubt God’s Gift to the world. Thank you for allowing him to use you in this great way.

LeonardMync December 17, 2013 at 11:37 pm good post thx 402 arabidze

William KODJOH-KPAKPASSOU December 18, 2013 at 11:17 am Avec le décès de Nelson MANDELA, l’Afrique a perdu un homme qui représentait à lui tout seul une grande conscience morale. Mais sa disparition ne signifie pas la mort des valeurs et des idéaux qu’il a incarnés. Le combat pour la liberté, l’égalité, la justice, la paix et le service des autres, n’en prend que plus d’importance. Tous les jeunes africains et du monde doivent garder vivant le flambeau qu’il a allumé.

Lorraine Ogle-Davies December 19, 2013 at 2:29 pm Thank you FATHER GOD for giving us the gift of NELSON ROHLIHLAHLA MANDELA . The Bible says give thanks in all thins. (1Thessalonians5:18). We thank GOD for the role that Mandela played in the struggle for SOUTH AFRICA and AFRICA. Thank GOD for the courage that MANDELA demonstrated in the face of the trial.

Dharmisha Cvetkovic December 20, 2013 at 2:04 pm Mother earth trembles In honor of Madiba The planet is silent As his body reciprocates Humanity weeps At the embrace of Godliness Each grain of sand is sanctified By the love of the Father Qunu is the holiest of lands…

Paul M. Nkofo December 23, 2013 at 4:43 pm Tribute to President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela The world is in deep agony for they have lost a grandfather, a father, a husband, a brother, a companion and friend. However, the reality is that you have changed form and continue to live forever. Your arduous autobiography is etched unto subconscious minds of men – where a portrait of your long walk to freedom dangles not to gather dust. Indeed you have mummified yourself in deeds. That you have become to humankind will not be obliterated from history. You lived your life as a humble servant to humanity. You have taught the world that true leadership is not about self veneration and prominence above men – for there is one in heaven to whom these things eternally belong. You have taken the most difficult parts of the scripture and made them practical; “love thy neighbour, do unto others as you would like done unto you, forgive others that you may be forgiven, let children come to me for the kingdom of heaven is theirs, love your enemies.” It is amazing how multitudes fail dismally to practice these excerpts – even ministers of the word, but to you they rolled out naturally like a long time practiced piece of performance art! My heart knocks against the bars of my rib cage and threatens to tear the pericardium as it wants to peep through to the outer world. I sincerely begin to understand the pain you went through the twenty-seven years as you yearned to connect with your beloved and the world! You were subjected to mixed emotions that were meant to gradually nibble upon your strength to oblivion. From the moment you set your foot in jail, you grew from strength to strength as the negligible building blocks of time slowly constructed the twenty-seven onerous years. The certainty of the future could only be determined through a seasoned subconscious mind through fixing one’s eyes on celestial forces. You and we are today separated by the flailing curtain that separates heaven and earth. Our language is different for now you speak that of God and the angels – tecel. cat. marith. macha (let us all praise Him). Through spiritual eyes I look beyond the river of mortal life. I see a tall handsome man briskly taking strides towards the golden gates in the city of the Lamb. I call desperately but he does not steal a backward glance, for he is beckoned by saints of old and the heavenly troops unto whom his focussed attention is whole. In his ears the echo of my voice fades to nothingness with the swift increments of the distance between us. Whence he rushes a banquet is prepared for him and his Master will give him a pad on the shoulder and say “well done son!” He is marked by the scars impressed as he drudged though the thorny scrubs to liberate his people in the desert of apartheid. The soles of his feet are sore from sand bleach, his tongue sticks to the palate due to thirst and hunger for love, peace and harmony in the world. His face is heat scorched by the blazing sun, but internal life and peace exude through the radiance of his flickering eyes and a genuine smile. The undulating hills of Mveso have become coenocytic as they are rent in preparation to engulf your organic remains and slowly set them free to join the cycles of nature. You remain a wonder to the world. Had you been a landscape, you would have unanimously made it to the world heritage list! The place where your remains are buried is therefore an important heritage site! Good bye TATA! I feel this is the only way I may deal with the catastrophe of your loss and the avalanche of emotions evoked by your exodus! You have united people in your life and departure. To that, testimony is given by the multitudes around the world who speak in one voice, and those who gathered around your Houghton home to sing as they delivered their flowers and condolences from dawn to dusk. Let your legacy be entrenched in all nations throughout generations to come! We thank the African National Congress (ANC) – the organisation which natured your political birth and development. They trained and gave you a stage to perform. Combined with your willingness and resilience against the blistering sun and adverse weather of the time, you germinated and developed to bear the fruits we enjoy today. You and others carried your nation through difficult times. Your knees did not buckle under the burgeoning load of racial discrimination and dehumanisation instituted by the white regime. Instead you soldiered on – Hamba kahle Mkhondo! To your family and friends, let us loose the man and let him go. Mama Graca – the sweet smelling flower transplanted from the sweltering eastern shores of Mozambique to contribute in the beautification of the landscapes of Qunu; Mama we deeply thank you and the Mandela family for sharing him with us and allowing us to become part of his dignified farewell. It would be total unfairness not to express benthic gratitude to President Zuma and those who worked with him to audaciously organise such a dignified sending away for our father! Long live Madiba! Goodbye TATA! You have raised the leadership bar to be perched upon by the majestic of birds – the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis) iconic and endemic to Ethiopia and the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains.

By Paul Maluke Nkofo From The Kingdom of Lesotho.

Wendy ward December 26, 2013 at 1:39 am May you rest in peace mr. Mandela <3

Karen Lusier December 31, 2013 at 7:19 pm Karen Lusier December 31, 2013 I would like to offer my sympathy to the Mandela family during this period of mourning. I would also like to share a message of comfort and hope for the future. The quote given of Mr. Mandela’s definition of freedom is very thought provoking. He said, “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” The Bible expresses it this way, “All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you must also do to them.” – Matthew 7:12 (New World Translation 2013) Mr. Mandela was imprisoned for working to make his fundamental concept of freedom a reality. It is a reality in harmony with God’s purpose for all mankind. A reality that will be accomplished only by means of God’s Kingdom, the heavenly government that God’s son Jesus Christ taught us to pray for. – Matthew 6:9,10. A universal government that will never be brought to ruin, standing alone, lasting indefinitely. –Daniel 2:44. A government that will fulfill God’s original purpose for mankind and the Earth. –Genesis 1:27-31; Psalm 37:11, 29; Revelation 21:4. It is my sincere hope that Mr. Mandela will be among those who will receive these magnificent and lasting blessings through the resurrection hope that God’s word, the Bible, extends to those who fallen asleep in death. –Acts 24:15; Job 14: 14,15; Revelation 20:12, 13

Anu Nepal January 6, 2014 at 10:25 pm To Zindzi And family, my deepest condolences. May you have strength and courage in this time of mourning and letting go. Every South African owes to Madiba’s legacy our commitment to justice in South Africa and the world. South Africa has one of the most progressive constitutions in the world because of the sacrifice and courage of Madiba .c

Rest in peace Taata

Aum Bur Buhasvaha That Savitur Varenyum bhargo Devasya Dheemahi dhiyoyo Naha prochodayaathe…(for u Zindzi…)

Mlamuli Vundla January 13, 2014 at 5:23 pm He was great man let us pray for his soul to rest in peace and may other living politicians learn from his lessons.

Chriselda Mamotho Tabane January 15, 2014 at 8:13 am Kealeboga Ntate Neloson Mandela, bo phelong ba gao, le tsothle o di dirileng go maphelo a rona mo South Africa, go nthuta go tshwarela le go itse gore ke ithute go phela le dira tsa rona… Dankie

Pascy Tsipa January 23, 2014 at 11:02 am He surely was a great selfless Leader

Mamiki SC Pinkoane January 25, 2014 at 6:43 pm It’s the unhappiness we see on our faces in South Africa that remind us the pain still cuts deep. The confusion for way forward, each of us trying to find a way forward, the dawning of possible self-defense against the lions of this world is as real as it ever was before 1990. Since 1990 they looked at South Africa and Africa with a different eye, sincere view, a need to unravel poverty, unemployment, indecent acts of humanity, today we wait in awe as WEF 2014 pursuit. Your presence harnessed peace, equality, abundance, generosity, joy and happiness qualities you were blessed. Today the door is open for any lion to devour, Africa is exposed, the layer of protection is fallen. Where art thou such like yours, is our Creator not the One of multiplication? We are in dire need of the one even superior than yours of character. We hold on to memory as if it’s a living soul but the morning is as real with faces of hopelessness. It cuts deep, only time heals, as we maintain the ideals of the Rainbow nation your facet of unity. Your soul rest assured as your legacy continue the journey.

Joseph Lennon January 26, 2014 at 6:21 pm Thank you, Mr Mandela, for the life lessons you have given us through your love, simplicity, honesty, service, humility, care, courage, foresight, patience, stamina, determination, tolerance, forgiveness, equality and justice, but most especially, your leadership.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

NEO CHRISTINAH MATSAPOLA January 26, 2014 at 8:27 pm Words alone are not enough to present the deep hurt the world experienced at the news of your passing Tata Mandela. You represented Africa and humanity in the highest standards possible and we are proud of you. Your deeds moved the perception that lawyers are the devils’ advocates to the Godly intended honorary and noble status. You fought for a good cause and left all of us an undying legacy: Respect for life, humbleness and forgiveness. May the Lord allow your soul to rest in eternal peace! May Africa and the Human race at large follow on your steps and seek, selflessly, peace and provide service to the human race! Robala sentle! Love from Botswana

Cassie March 15, 2014 at 2:06 am You were a great man for what you have done. I will always love and miss you. Rest In Peace Nelson Mandela.

Stephen April 21, 2014 at 6:31 am RIP

Essay on Nelson Mandela 500+ Words

Nelson Mandela, often referred to as “Madiba,” was a remarkable leader who dedicated his life to fighting for justice, equality, and freedom. He was born in South Africa in 1918, at a time when his country was deeply divided by a system of racial segregation known as apartheid. In this essay, we will explore the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela, his role in ending apartheid, and his enduring legacy as a symbol of hope and reconciliation.

The Apartheid Era

Apartheid was a brutal system of racial segregation enforced by the South African government. Under apartheid, people were classified by their race, and non-white South Africans faced discrimination, violence, and limited opportunities. Nelson Mandela grew up in a society where racial injustice was deeply entrenched.

Mandela’s Early Life and Activism

Nelson Mandela was a bright and determined young man. Additionally, he studied law and, in his early years, became involved in the anti-apartheid movement. Furthermore, he joined the African National Congress (ANC), a political organization with a dedicated mission to end apartheid and attain equality for all South Africans.

The Rivonia Trial

Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid led to his arrest and imprisonment. In 1964, he and other anti-apartheid leaders were sentenced to life in prison during the Rivonia Trial. Mandela spent 27 years behind bars, but his spirit remained unbroken.

The Global Call for Mandela’s Release

While Nelson Mandela was in prison, his cause gained international attention. People around the world, including famous musicians, politicians, and activists, called for his release. The global outcry against apartheid put pressure on the South African government to change its policies.

The End of Apartheid

In 1990, after more than two decades in prison, Nelson Mandela was released. His release marked a turning point in South Africa’s history. Mandela became a leader in negotiations to end apartheid peacefully. His efforts, along with those of other leaders, led to the first multiracial elections in 1994 and the election of Nelson Mandela as South Africa’s first black president.

Mandela’s Presidency and Legacy

As president, Nelson Mandela diligently worked to heal the wounds of apartheid. Moreover, he endeavored to build a more inclusive and equal South Africa. In his pursuit of these goals, he actively promoted reconciliation between different racial groups. Additionally, he took a significant step by establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address the injustices of the past.

Nelson Mandela’s Global Impact

Nelson Mandela’s legacy extends far beyond South Africa. He is celebrated worldwide for his commitment to justice and peace. He received numerous awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize, and inspired people everywhere to stand up against injustice and discrimination.

Lessons from Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela’s life teaches us important lessons about courage, perseverance, and the power of forgiveness. Despite facing immense challenges and adversity, he remained committed to his principles of justice and equality. His ability to forgive those who had oppressed him is a shining example of the strength of the human spirit.

Conclusion of Essay on Nelson Mandela

In conclusion, Nelson Mandela’s life is a testament to the power of one individual to make a positive and lasting impact on the world. His unwavering dedication to ending apartheid, promoting reconciliation, and championing equality serves as an inspiration to us all. Nelson Mandela’s legacy lives on, reminding us that even in the face of injustice, hope and change are possible. He will forever be remembered as a symbol of freedom, equality, and the enduring human spirit.

Also Check: The Essay on Essay: All you need to know

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Head and Heart: The Lessons of Leadership from Nelson Mandela

For the centenary of Nelson Mandela’s birth, we commissioned Mandla Langa to reflect on Madiba’s legacy five years after his passing. Langa is a renowned author of both fiction and non-fiction, and in 2017 partnered with the Foundation on the book Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years , an account of Madiba’s 1994-1999 presidency. The essay by him published here interprets Madiba’s life in relation to local and global contexts.

Almost everyone you meet has a story about Mandela; sometimes not so much about what he did as about how he made them feel. He was self-deprecating about his renown, joking, for instance, about meeting a couple in Nassau in 1991 when he was a guest of Chris Blackwell. An overawed cyclist almost fell off his bike when he saw Mandela. Calling his wife over, he said: “Honey, this is Mr Mandela.” Unimpressed, the wife answered, “Yes, I hear that … but what is he famous for?”

The most pertinent question, which remains unasked throughout the appraisal of Nelson Mandela’s life is, what was it about him that endeared him, sometimes to the level of near-hysteria, to people the world over? South Africans say that he made them feel alive; others, even admirers from far and wide, basked in his reflected sunshine and started connecting with the politics of their land because, they maintained, there were suddenly all these possibilities. It was through the world of artists – the poets mentioned previously – that he, Mandela, became even more alive in the public imagination.

Anyone who was lucky enough to have attended the concert to celebrate Mandela's 70 th birthday while he was still in prison, at Wembley Stadium, London, in June 1988, would admit to have been treated to a transcendental moment. I remember the ecstasy among the South African exile and expatriate community, members of the anti-apartheid and solidarity movement and, of course, the thousands of mainly young people in the audience. Of the artists themselves, I remember the stammering pain mixed with joy on the face of the late Whitney Houston when she took the stage, beginning a long friendship with Mandela and South Africa, which would continue when she met him once he had become president at a dinner hosted by Bill Clinton at the White House in October 1994.

“This performance is very special to me,” she said, preparing to sing for guests in the Rose Garden, “because in 1988 I sang in honour of Nelson Mandela the inmate and tonight I sing for elected president, Nelson Mandela.”

While the world – or, according the to the title of one of Kgositsile’s poetry collections, the present – might be a dangerous place blighted by cynicism and selfishness, it can also be stimulated into tapping its hidden reserves of virtuousness. Mandela’s face became the most immediate representation of that undefined energy called “the struggle” raging at home and lent strength to the worldwide anti-apartheid and solidarity movements, which called for sanctions and isolation of the regime. “If there’s one lesson we can learn from the struggle against racism, in our country as well as yours,” Nelson Mandela said about the United States while on a visit there, “it is that racism must be consciously combatted and not discreetly tolerated.”

Artists, a breed renowned the world over for their low threshold for any form of intolerance, heeded the call to isolate South Africa; in the US, thwarting apartheid’s sleight-of-hand to escape international isolation, Steve van Zandt formed United Artists Against Apartheid and in 1985 produced a rock anthem, I Ain’t Gonna Play Sun City , featuring Bruce Springsteen, Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Bob Dylan and Gil Scott-Heron.

Not to be outdone, film and stage actors appeared in productions inspired by the South African story. One of the most enduring films is Cry, the Beloved Country , based on the novel by Alan Paton. The veteran actor James Earl Jones, Hollywood’s most distinctive voice, was concerned about how the portrayal of a long-suffering character would go down with a more militant youth. Speaking to the Austin Chronicle in January 1996, he said that he’d read the book a long time ago “and had always wanted to be in [its film version]. But my big question was: How would the gentleness – which I think is the key to my character – how would it go over with young black people? My main concern was that it not appear as something from the past, as a museum piece. I said: ‘When Mandela is freed, we’ll see.’ My character mirrors Mandela’s gentleness. When he was freed, I knew I would make this picture.”

In a word, Mandela freed others to embrace their own freedom. But he knew that this freedom, which for black people involved removing both the physical and mental shackles imposed on them by the white racist regime, would not be complete without the white people – who had been routinely fed on the false diet of racial superiority – shaking off their own shackles. Even though a member of the ANC, in fact, its leader, he knew he had to become a statesman operating above or beyond the constraints imposed by party political loyalties if he were to truly steer his fragmented country on an unswerving path to a non-racial and prosperous democracy. He had once been on stage, playing Creon, the tyrant in Sophocles’ Antigone , on Robben Island and had developed a liking for Greek tragedy and Shakespeare. But this was a different kind of theatre, a theatre of life where, to borrow from James Baldwin again, “a current flowed back and forth between the audience and the actors: flesh and blood corroborating flesh and blood”. It was a theatre of life, real, where missteps could lead to bloodshed and the loss of innocent lives.

Recording artists present the United Artists Against Apartheid record to the Chairman of the United Nations Special Committee Against Apartheid.

In leadership, the past is prologue

Early in 2018, the centenary year of Nelson Mandela’s birth, South Africans have borne witness to a flurry of political activity that has thrown, rather appropriately, a spotlight on our country’s leadership. At the heart of all this has been a decade-long strain put on our widely admired Constitution. Acts of omission or commission by various people in power have occasioned a series of transgressions typified by corruption and a breach of public trust. The result: one president has resigned, another has taken his place – someone who was instrumental, in fact, in creating our Constitution – and South Africa is gripped by the kind of optimism which, if it doesn’t reach the high-water mark set by Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1990, at least makes for some sense of much-needed renewal.

While the corruption South Africa has endured could be written off as common to administrations around the world, South Africans feel especially pained by it, mainly because the theft from the public purse diverts resources from the poorest of the poor. Our country’s poorest citizens bear the brunt when it comes to service delivery, which grinds to a halt at the threshold of their desperate dwellings. The grand larceny also distracts us from the much larger debate about the structure of the economy. It leads to silence about the unconscionable levels of inequality here, plus the fact that while the poor – invariably the black majority – are trapped in poverty, the well-resourced – the majority of whom, inescapably, are white – become vocal in decrying corruption, proof positive, so goes the logic, that blacks are incapable of running a modern economy. The ills of the unresolved past and its iniquities give a piquant flavouring to dinner conversations, where the past – a different country that was experienced differently by different people – is either commended or condemned. Common to these conversations, though, is the consensus that the world was a somewhat more tolerable place during the life and times of Nelson Mandela.

Nostalgia for the past – an impulse as prevalent in antiquity as in modern times – comes over people whenever they feel menaced, betrayed or disappointed. As a rule, though, very few people can be nostalgic about periods when they were powerless or set at naught. Dyed-in-the-wool beneficiaries of apartheid plunder, for instance, remember that past fondly; for the majority of black people – and a minority of relatively-committed whites – the return to the inglorious days of apartheid would be as unthinkable as would a return to life on a slave plantation be for African Americans. Paradise, then, could not have been real without the existence of hell. Mandela, a realist, wrote from prison in July 1985: “In my current circumstances, thinking about the past can be far more exacting than contemplating the present and predicting the course of future events.”

Given the all-too-human temptation for blacks to remember the scourge of colonialism and apartheid with an eye on avoiding their rebirth – and for whites to eradicate from living memory the reality of benefitting from the shameful legacy of the sjambok and the pillory, the better to absolve themselves – it would take the commitment of one man to coax our bipolar society into a realistic accommodation of its history. Advising against the principle of retribution, Mandela famously said that “All of us South Africans, both black and white, must build a common sense of nationhood in which all ideas of vengeance and retribution are impermissible.” For him, the moorings of the future were in the present, the now. For us, to know Mandela we must delve back into the past, into the makings of him, which are ineluctably intertwined with the makings of the South Africa we know today.

Nelson Mandela signing the Parliamentary Bible.

Mandela the pacifist, Mandela the warrior: the making of a leader in the field

Voicing an idea that must have roiled in the minds of the multitudes over the last two decades, the late South African poet laureate Keorapetse Kgositsile wrote:

I fear the end of peace and I wonder if that is perhaps why our memories of struggle refuse to be erased.

The fear of the end of peace or of its corollary, the beginning of war, had motivated Nelson Mandela long before he had consciously internalised his future role as a champion of peace and reconciliation. The fear was not so much a reflexive shrinking away from the possibility of harm to oneself as a deliberate advocacy of measures to shield the more vulnerable from injury or destruction. In this, Mandela’s disposition is in alignment with an Aristotelian notion of courage. The philosopher argued that the courageous person doesn’t fear death if he or she is committed to a noble cause. Mandela said: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. I felt fear myself more times that I can remember, but I hid it behind a mask of boldness. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

He not only controlled his fear but his temperament. Prisons were designed to break the prisoner’s spirit; the warders’ prime responsibility was to bend the will of their charges. In Mandela they found a person who knew not only the history of places like Robben Island but of the luminaries that had been imprisoned there through the centuries. There were the legendary Makana, “the commander of the Xhosa army” and Autshumayo, the Khoisan chief of the Goringhaicona who managed to escape from the island. A notable inspiration for Mandela was Maqoma, another celebrated commander who ended up there. In a sense, then, Mandela saw himself as part of a heroic fellowship, identifying with kindred spirits and continuing the journey of resistance started by these illustrious ancestors. He knew that the first step towards conquering a bleak place was to call it home.

“Just as the Portuguese colonialists gave a unique place in history to the island of Fernando Po by imprisoning numerous African patriots … so too have the rulers of South Africa determined that Robben Island should live in the memory of our people. Robben Island – one-time leper colony, Second World War naval fortress guarding the entrance to Cape Town harbour – a tiny outcrop of limestone, bleak, windswept and caught in the wash of the cold Benguela current, whose history counts the years of our people’s bondage. My new home.”

Mandela had a fair idea what the white nationalists in power were capable of wreaking. As a lawyer, first, and full-time political activist subsequently, he had had a ringside seat at the bloody drama that played out in the cities, towns and countryside. There was no spot on the landscape that was spared from hideous goings-on. The most vulnerable were the farmworkers and prisoners forced to work on plantations, such as the potato plantations in Bethal, in present-day Mpumalanga. A chilling account by journalist Janet Smith, writing in 2008, typifies a day in the life of a black South African under apartheid in the period that Mandela mounted his challenge:

“What happened in the 1950s in Bethal should never be forgotten. Many of the farmers compelled their workers to dig up the potato harvest with their bare hands, and those who could not keep up, or became exhausted, were beaten unmercifully. The men and women who died, either from the beatings or the cruel manual labour, were mostly buried out in the open fields, with members of their own families sometimes having to load their bodies into the earth.”

With an understanding that repression had to be confronted head on, Mandela became the ANC’s volunteer-in-chief for the Defiance Campaign against unjust laws in 1952. This, it must be remembered, was just four years after the National Party came into power, a period of great repression. Although the laws the campaign singled out were not repealed, its success lay in its being a very effective recruitment tool. “As a result of the campaign,” Mandela writes in Long Walk to Freedom , “our membership swelled to 100 000” and the “ANC emerged as a truly mass-based organization with an impressive corps of experienced activists who had braved the police, the courts and the jails. The stigma usually associated with imprisonment had been removed.”

But the assault by the state continued unabated, with banning orders served on Mandela and other leaders of the ANC, such as Chief Albert Luthuli, its president. This made it difficult to manoeuvre, organise or mount resistance to the ongoing onslaught, including the removals of the communities from Sophiatown and District Six to make way for white progress. And here, Mandela was candid about the mistakes made. For instance, during the removals, the ANC had coined the slogan, “Over Our Dead Bodies”, which Mandela characterised as “dynamic”, but which “proved as much a hindrance as a help”. For, while it “caught the imagination of the people”, it “led them to believe that we would fight to the death to resist the removal. In fact, the ANC was not prepared to do that at all.”

It was becoming increasingly clear to Mandela that in the end he and his compatriots “had no alternative to armed and violent resistance”. The men and women who formed part of the liberation movement had used all the “non-violent weapons in our arsenal … to no avail”. One of his last attempts to get the government’s attention through non-violent methods came with the convening of the Congress of the People, which took place in Kliptown, Johannesburg on 25 and 26 June 1955. In a re-enactment of a seminal event of more than 40 years earlier, the founding convention of the ANC in Bloemfontein in 1912, more than three thousand delegates from the length and breadth of the country, and a host of different organisations, came together to chart a course aimed at changing history. The upshot of this two-day meeting, which was periodically menaced by the thuggish officiousness of Special Branch detectives brandishing sten guns, was the adoption of the Freedom Charter, a document characterised by Mandela as “a great beacon for the liberation struggle”. The Freedom Charter “captured the hopes and dreams of the people and acted as a blueprint for the liberation struggle and the future of the nation”.

Matters came to a head on 21 March 1960. An anti-pass demonstration by the Pan Africanist Congress massing at the Sharpeville police station was fired on by the police, leaving 69 dead and hundreds injured. The majority of the casualties – men, women and children – had sustained gunshot wounds to the back while fleeing. There had been other notable examples of gross dereliction on the part of the state, such as the Coalbrook mine disaster in 1960 where 435 people, mainly black, suffocated or drowned under miles of rock. The Sharpeville Massacre, as it has come to be known, was a more naked form of violence whose effects reverberated across the globe. In South Africa, there were more demonstrations – called “civil unrest” in official euphemese – and resultant deaths and injuries. With liberation movements banned and any peaceful avenue to resolution of the country’s intractable problems effectively closed, there was no alternative but to rethink the strategy of passive resistance.

Finally, on the last weekend in March 1961, just days before the end of the marathon Treason Trial, Mandela popped up in Pietermaritzburg at the All-in Africa Conference. There he was mandated to write to Prime Minister HF Verwoerd about establishing a convention on a non-racial constitution for South Africa and to follow this path rather than hauling South Africa out of the Commonwealth of Nations. Verwoerd ignored the two letters Mandela wrote warning of a three-day stay-at-home for 29, 30 and 31 May. An extreme show of force on the first day and a last-minute turn around by the English press, which had previously promised to support the strike, led to disappointing support and Mandela called it off on day two.

The government’s wilful deafness and utter disregard for the lives of black people were therefore the catalyst towards the formation in June 1961 of Umkhonto weSizwe, the military wing of the ANC, and its launch on 16 December 1961, with Nelson Mandela as its first commander-in-chief. For Mandela, the decision to take up arms was predicated on the actions of the state. “Where the oppressor uses peaceful methods,” he said, “the oppressed will also use peaceful methods, but if the oppressor uses force, the oppressed will also retaliate in force.”

Announcing the first actions of sabotage by Umkhonto weSizwe after its formation, Mandela said: “If the government reaction is to crush by naked force our non-violent struggle, we will have to reconsider our tactics. In my mind we are closing a chapter on this question of a non-violent policy.” This rationale for taking up arms was contained in the leaflets from the ANC, which exhorted the oppressed to rise up.

“The time comes in the life of any nation when there remain only two choices: submit or fight. That time has now come to South Africa. We shall not submit and we have no choice but to hit back by all means within our power in defence of our people, our future and our freedom. The government has interpreted the peacefulness of the movement as weakness; the people’s non-violent policies have been taken as a green light for government violence. Refusal to resort to force has been interpreted by the government as an invitation to use armed force against the people without any fear of reprisals. The methods of Umkhonto weSizwe mark a break with that past.”

By the time these words filtered through the townships and hostels, farms and plantations, factories and schools – words replayed in clandestine radio broadcasts and from the capitals of countries, some of which have now been erased from world maps – the Soviet Union, the Democratic German Republic, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Ethiopia, Zambia – Mandela and much of the top leadership of the liberation movement were in prison. His journeys across Africa immediately before his final arrest, his last moments of operating as a free man – moments that told him how thoroughly unfree he had been in his native land – had prepared the ground for the ANC to establish its diplomatic missions abroad and spread the word of liberation.

While Mandela was in shackles, it would be Walter Sisulu, his mentor and one of the world’s most consistent political leaders, who would produce the first Radio Freedom broadcast from the ANC’s underground farm north of Johannesburg, in June 1963. “I speak to you from somewhere in South Africa,” Sisulu announced. “Never has the country, and our people, needed leadership as they do now, in this hour of crisis. Our house is on fire.”

The Sharpeville Massacre, 21 March 1960.

Mandela the prisoner: the making of a leader inside

Nelson Mandela’s story, therefore, is about how he set out to put out the blaze.

In 1969, Mandela’s son died, three months after he had learnt of his wife Winnie Madikizela Mandela’s incarceration. He received a terse telegram informing him of his son’s death in a “motor accident in Cape Town”. The son, Thembekile – which means “the trusted one” – “was then 25, and the father of two small children”. Notwithstanding his pleas, Mandela’s keepers refused him permission to attend his son’s funeral. “As a father,” he said, “it was my responsibility to make sure that my son’s spirit would rest peacefully.”

There was nothing, therefore, in the behaviour of his captors to give Mandela a sense that he was dealing with rational people. Their actions went against anything he had known. Having grown up in the royal family of abaThembu – and being familiar with wars of resistance – he knew the code of conduct among people involved in hostilities. Even armies, who stared at each other from a great gulf, allowed enemies a brief respite to bury their dead. Mandela’s captors were simply not worth saving; unleashing the force of the state, they had heaped indignity upon indignity on their charges; their regime was nothing more than an obscenity.

Not daring to make the first move, however, or leaving the apartheid authorities to their own devices, unchecked on their path to ruin – where they would take the whole country down with them – would have been as equally reckless, as morally questionable as allowing the fire to rage on. Although he knew that his initiative could have ended up in defeat, he could not stand aside, as is evidenced in a passionate letter he wrote to give encouragement to Winnie:

“For one thing those who have no soul, no sense of national pride and no ideals to win can suffer neither humiliation nor defeat; they can evolve no national heritage, are inspired by no sacred mission and can produce no martyrs or national heroes.”

Notwithstanding Mandela’s wariness about the apartheid authorities, he had studied them long enough to see glimpses of humanity in some of them. He would later tell Patti Waldmeir in an interview that one thing he had discovered was that “men are not the same, even when dealing with a community that has a tradition of insensitivity towards human rights”.

There are few places as lonely and as depersonalising as prison. Prison destroys the soul, giving power to warders, who are weighed down by their own impotence in the bigger world. It is here that people are broken. Were it not for the fact that they were handmaidens, the cats’ paws of an inhuman administration, I would personally find the warders worthy of sympathy, for they were confronted by something alien to their upbringing and the teachings of their churches, which they had taken with their mothers’ milk. They’d never confronted black people whose conduct was out of character with what was expected of prisoners. It was on Robben Island that the warders could significantly lose their own freedom and sense of self. Much later, some of them would testify how their friendship with Mandela started to rekindle their connection with humanity.

It was is this realisation, this understanding of one’s role as a force on the inside, that the prisoner slowly takes over – assumes – the moral high ground and wrests legitimacy from the regime and its representatives. It is in the panic that comes over those who experience control slipping from their fingers that starts to arm the prisoner with resolve. During Mandela’s many years of incarceration, according to A Prisoner in the Garden , the authoritative prison archive of Nelson Mandela,

“Prison authorities compiled a detailed record around prisoner 466/64. They carefully recorded, duplicated and filed every piece of paper, relating to Mandela. These included results of medical tests, correspondence with family and friends, formal complaints against prison conditions and early negotiations with his captors. The prison files reveal the extent of the web of surveillance that existed in apartheid South Africa, the depth of paranoia around Mandela and, most strikingly, the power that this Robben Island prisoner wielded in spite of his status as an inmate.”

It was partly this status in prison – for he must have understood the effect of his own personality on his captors – that empowered Mandela to set out on a mission that would entail his release and culminate in his ascendancy to the presidency of the country. While alerting him to his own vulnerability, prison was also a place where he came to terms with himself, his predicament and the conundrum that faced his country.

Fifteen years before his release, in a letter dated 1 February 1975, Mandela wrote to Winnie, who was in Kroonstad women’s prison in the Free State. In the letter he characterised a prison cell as a place that “gives you the opportunity to look daily into your entire conduct, to overcome the bad and develop whatever is good in you”. Although meant for his wife, who certainly needed his support to survive one of the bleakest periods of her incarceration, when she suffered from periodic bouts of claustrophobia, the advice was also directed inwardly – especially the part where he suggested meditation nightly before going to sleep.

It was this sense of discipline that contributed to the peculiar aura of gravitas surrounding Mandela. In his early years on Robben Island, he found himself imprisoned with a cross-section of South African society. There were of course the grand old men of the struggle, like Walter Sisulu and Govan Mbeki, to name a few. It was, however, the young entrants into the prison population, the adherents of the Black Consciousness movement – firebrands who imagined they would shake Robben Island from its slumber – that further opened Mandela’s eyes to the country’s unique shape.

It was here that he came face to face with the fact that he didn’t have all the answers; and that people could differ with him – in a patently disagreeable manner. He crossed swords with Harry Gwala and countenanced the frustrated belligerence of people like Strini Moodley, who held that the old-timers were too tame. In a wide-ranging interview with Alec Russell of the Financial Times on 7 June 2015, Mac Maharaj, who would spend a substantial time with Nelson Mandela – and who helped smuggle drafts of The Long Walk to Freedom out of Robben Island – remembers exchanges that illustrate Mandela’s way of thinking:

“He understood where I was coming from. He understood that I was committed to the issue of an armed struggle based on mass mobilisation. But he said to me, Mac, in the end … how do you ambush the other side? You have inferior forces, you have inferior weaponry, but how are you going to defeat that chap? […] if you don’t know your opposite, how are you going to get them to respond the way you want … I said, but I’ve read Commando by one of the Afrikaner leaders, Denys Reitz, and other books so I have an idea how they think. Mandela responded that those were specific instances under previous commander. So what must I do? I ask. He says, learn the language. OK, I said, I’ll learn. He says, no, learn their poetry, understand their culture.”

From the personal accounts by late entrants into the prison community, Mandela came to learn, not only of the different approaches that those involved in the Struggle for freedom were taking, but also of the regime’s relentless slaughter of an unarmed populace. The toll was especially high in the aftermath of a series of states of emergency enforced first in 1985. The intensified repression was aimed at countering heightened – and widespread – resistance, which was inspired in the main by the Mass Democratic Movement. Appalled at the level of desperation, Mandela could see the country easily turning into a wasteland.

One of many posters demanding that Nelson Mandela be set free.

Mandela the president: a leader takes power, partly by reading a poem

“A good head and a good heart,” Nelson Mandela wrote, “are always a formidable combination.” There are “few misfortunes in this world,” he said on another occasion, “that you cannot turn into a personal triumph if you have the iron will and the necessary skill”.

It is not often that we can count ourselves lucky for having witnessed the making of history. The official announcement signalling the dismantling of apartheid with the release of Nelson Mandela in February 1990 is as etched in my mind as could be V-Day, the assassination of JFK or of Martin Luther King, Jr, or – much later – the day the planes crashed into the Twin Towers in New York for a succession of generations.

As there is something ineffable about these moments, and memory is sometimes unreliable, it is always advisable to get them corroborated by other witnesses. Here, the poets who have a licence to dream on behalf of their communities are especially helpful. Nelson Mandela would himself give honour to poetry by reading Ingrid Jonker’s poem, The Child is Not Dead , in its original Afrikaans during his address at the opening of the first democratic parliament on 24 May 1994. He said:

“The time will come when our nation will honour the memory of all the sons, the daughters, the mothers, the fathers, the youth and the children who, by their thoughts and deeds, gave us the right to assert with pride that we are South Africans, that we are Africans and that we are citizens of the world.”

Then he spoke of Jonker, who was “both a poet and a South African”, and who, in the dark days when all seemed hopeless, when many refused to hear her resonant voice, took her own life. “To her and others like her,” Mandela said, “we owe a debt to life itself. To her and others like her, we owe a commitment to the poor, the oppressed, the wretched and the despised.”

Ingrid wrote:

The child is not dead the child lifts his fists against his mother who shouts Africa! ...

The child is not dead Not at Langa nor at Nyanga nor at Orlando nor at Sharpeville nor at the police post at Philippi where he lies with a bullet through his brain ...

the child is present at all assemblies and law-giving the child peers through the windows of houses and into the hearts of mothers this child who only wanted to play in the sun at Nyanga is everywhere

the child grown to a man treks on through all Africa the child grown to a giant journeys over the whole world without a pass!

For Mandela, who had always prized children and childhood, it was inevitable that he saw the symbolic connection between the death of one child as an example of a dream deferred. He reasoned, however, that a death must not be in vain but should galvanise all to create a liveable future for all South Africans. He wrote, and said:

“And in this glorious vision, she instructs that our endeavours must be about the liberation of the woman, the emancipation of the man and the liberty of the child.

“It is these things that we must achieve to give meaning to our presence in this chamber and to give purpose to our occupancy of the seat of government.

“And so we must, constrained by and yet regardless of the accumulated effect of our historical burdens, seize the time to define for ourselves what we want to make of our shared destiny.

“The government I have the honour to lead and I dare say the masses who elected us to serve in this role, are inspired by the single vision of creating a people-centred society.”

With these words, and Jonker’s poetry, a restless society, split apart by violence and strife, was steadied by the hand of a man who had learnt to be alone with himself for almost three decades.

It is, however, his five-year presidency that has come under scrutiny, because this was where he was responsible to the totality of the South African citizenry and not just to the ANC. In this period, a blip in the hundreds of years it took to manufacture modern-day South Africa, he must have appreciated that he would become weighed down by the burden of expectation from a populace in need of a quick miracle. In a sense, this country of wilful amnesia and selective nostalgia heaved a sigh of uneasy relief with Mandela’s acclaimed ascendancy to power. He was a ready-made scapegoat and messiah all rolled into one; the tension between these two poles would have led many straight into a madhouse. Mandela couldn’t have been oblivious to his own predicament. He had seen from history how some leaders that might have come to power via a popular mandate were overthrown on the strength of a faltering economy.

Mandela was familiar with the case of the late Chilean socialist president, Salvador Allende, who came to power when the country was in the grip of severe economic crises. To make matters worse, he was trying to build a socialist society through the nationalisation of industries in the face of unemployment, inflation and widespread malnutrition. Mandela’s own flirtation with nationalisation ended soon after the trip to Davos in 1992 where he was told, in no uncertain terms, by leaders from China and Vietnam how such a policy had led to the ruin of many a country’s economy. President Allende, as Mandela would 20 years’ thence, restored diplomatic relations with China, Cuba and various countries deemed undesirable by the Western powers. Notwithstanding Allende’s popularity with the farmers and the man and woman on the street, he had so alienated business and other politicians with his adoption of socialist policies that it was possible for his government to be overthrown in September 1973 by a military coup organised by Henry Kissinger and the CIA.

Aware that the goodwill that derived from the peaceful transition would not last unless leveraged upon – and cognisant of the dire consequences of an underserved public – Mandela knew that the biggest hurdle to overcome was the one of socio-economic transformation. The analysis of the office of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP), an integrated socio-economic framework, was that “the South African economy is in deep-seated structural crisis, and as such requires fundamental restructuring”.

Growth and development, Mandela would note, were more than interdependent; they were mutually reinforcing. Addressing inequalities, he maintained, would expand markets at home, open markets abroad and create opportunities to promote representative ownership of the economy. The expansion of the economy would raise state revenues by expanding the tax base, rather than by permanently raising taxes. The success of this approach would entail the government getting into “active partnerships with civil society, and with business and labour … [to] jointly pursue the broader challenges of extending opportunities to the millions of adult South Africans who can currently find no place in the formal economy … Our people elected us because they wanted change.” He further remarked that while “people have high expectations which are legitimate … [and while] the government cannot meet all these needs overnight, we must put firmly into place the concrete goals, time frame and strategies to achieve this change”.

Analysing Mandela’s economic legacy, Matthew Davies, business reporter for BBC News, writes:

“In some senses, Mr Mandela and the African National Congress (ANC) inherited an economy that was heading for bankruptcy.”

So, it was to prove a difficult task to create a silk purse of an economy from the pig’s ear that apartheid had left behind. However, many analysts point out that great strides were made in delivering some of the Freedom Charter aspirations in the early years of the new South Africa. Dawie Roodt, chief economist at the Efficient Group, says:

“Many millions of people got running water, electricity, etc.

“But the infrastructure was neglected, and slowly state inefficiency and corruption became serious problems.”

The ANC had once been greatly enamoured of the social democratic model it had seen in various countries, especially Sweden; here, they saw a seamless relationship between government, labour and the private sector, to the extent that the boards of large corporations had trade union representatives. “Our present position on this aspect [of the economy] is the same as that of the Federal Republic of Germany, which contains in its constitution a clause on nationalisation as one of the options the government might employ in case of need. That option has not been exercised in that country for decades.

In truth, however, the complex question facing South Africa today – the economic quandary the country faces today, the runaway unemployment, the unacceptable levels of inequality – simply means that an anomaly in the negotiations became the recessive gene carried in the bloodstream of our democracy. It bespeaks a weakness, perhaps, on Mandela’s side, where he was distracted away from the granular detail of negotiations and concentrated, mainly, on the business of fostering stability and nation-building. He had a handpicked team, which, one believes, was also blindsided when it came to the question of the future implications of the economy. Given the outpourings of international goodwill towards our emergent democracy at the time of negotiations – for instance, the developmental experts and thinkers that could be found in the solidarity movement – Mandela’s team passed up an opportunity to tap into resources which could have strengthened its negotiating strategies.

Delivering the Political Report of the NEC to the 49th National Conference, which was held in Bloemfontein in December 1994, a disappointed Mandela summarised the incipient disaffection among the majority who voted for the ANC. He decried the “tendency for ruling parties is to claim success for each and every step they have taken in government. Let us be honest and say that we would have been satisfied if more people could concretely feel the impact of social change.”

The compromises reached in order to set up building blocks towards the emergent democracy had left the ANC with very little leverage in terms of economic clout. Mandela advised the conference to “admit that, in the process we did also falter”, and lamented that “the reality is that democratic forces in our country have captured only elements of political power”.

Nelson Mandela, as President of South Africa, at World Trade Organization talks in Geneva in May 1998.

Mandela nudges the world towards goodness

The American writer James Baldwin made bold to suggest that “the poets … are finally the only people who know the truth about us”. One such poet was the German playwright Bertolt Brecht, whose oft-quoted ascription of unhappiness to countries in need of heroes was as much a caveat for his troubled country as it is for the rest of today’s troubled world. Brecht’s – or even Baldwin’s – prophetic truth is evidenced in the state of anxiety currently holding the entire global society in thrall.

On 3 January 2018, two events, a birth and a death, took place within minutes of each other. Another prophetic poet, who I mentioned earlier on, was Keorapetse Kgositsile. I had discussed the implications of a July celebration of the centenary of Mandela’s birth with him: he had dedicated a poem to Mandela, which exhorted the listener to “defy the devils who traded in the human Spirit”. Then, suddenly, he was gone, after a short illness. I wondered what he would have made of Mandela’s contested legacy in this centennial year, remembering how my big-hearted, diminutive poet friend routinely made short shrift of the revisionism that flows out of ignorance of the conditions that had informed Mandela’s choices.

The second event was the birth of my grandniece, Chloe. Watching this helpless bundle balanced in the crook of her mother’s arm, I thought of the world, the country that Mandela and now Kgositsile had left and one in which Chloe was now demanding to be fed. Although unhappy at the collapse – or desecration – of most of Mandela’s ideals at the hands of an unprincipled leadership within the African National Congress, Kgositsile was comforted that the structures supporting democracy were still in place. Indeed, an overwhelmingly huge percentage of South Africans derive comfort from the knowledge that Mandela’s bequest – however imperfect – is a far cry from the state of tyranny under apartheid.

Mandela’s unique journey from the day he stepped out of the gates of Victor Verster Prison in 1990 – through his six-year presidency of the ANC from 1991 to 1997, and of the Republic of South Africa in 1994, to the moment he stepped down after one term in 1997 – has been represented in various media, including books, films and stage plays. It is a journey marked by Mandela’s adoption of his own advice for his son:

“To lead an orderly and disciplined life, and to give up the glittering pleasures that attract the average boy, to work hard and systematically in your studies throughout the year, will in the end bring you coveted prizes and much personal happiness.” – Nelson Mandela writing to his son, Makgatho, 28 July 1969

Mandela’s code of discipline, which was underpinned by sacrifice, has also been recorded and published in numerous biographies, and in The Long Walk to Freedom – an autobiography written, in part, to show how his own life experience could serve as an example for others to follow. He was meticulous in ensuring that an archive of his life would be made as accessible and as comprehensively as possible. The collections housed at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, vast as they might be, are by no means able to present him in sum, however, this man who towered above his contemporaries at home and abroad. It is to poetry we must turn for that – to poets like Kgositsile and his confreres, who heralded Mandela’s destiny, filling in the blanks and puncturing the veil of secrecy in times when his image was taboo, giving the world an understanding of the man who, in the words of the Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez, “behaves inside a dungeon as if he already were free”.

His gaolers tried to force the bitter destiny of the Book of Job on him: His remembrance shall perish from the earth and he shall have no name on the street . To no avail. Mandela lived in poetry, which, according to Nadine Gordimer’s foreword to the anthology Halala Madiba , is “the highest literary form of the gift of intense imaginative identification with the subject”. The concluding lines from Departure From the Isle of Torments by the late former South African poet laureate, Mazisi Kunene, capture the essence of that long journey of a man whose intellect and emotion – head and heart – were the essential qualities for the management of a most trying transition. Kunene writes:

Behold the swaying multitudes, the frenzied laughter: You did the nation well by returning!

Doing the nation well was Mandela’s preoccupation from the very start. Proud, authoritative and forthright – attributes that could be sourced to his upbringing as a scion of the royal house of abaThembu – Mandela would find Robben Island and successive prison environments conducive to acquiring leadership skills – skills that didn’t, and don’t, form part of the curricula in leadership academies. For one, the isolation of prison, the enforced hibernation, became a refresher course in survival. It brings to mind Ralph Ellison’s unnamed hero in Invisible Man , who discovers that being invisible can be a source of strength, where covert action becomes a springboard “for more overt action”.

The unintended consequence of the apartheid state’s attempt to render Mandela invisible was unprecedented curiosity – What is he like? people asked – which led to a veritable explosion of his image. The media, print and broadcast, was awash with a face that had become as ubiquitous as spring air – and as revitalising. Old black-and-white pictures flickered across screens: Mandela in a group photo as a 20-year-old student at Healdtown Comprehensive School; in a portrait wearing traditional attire; in 1951, standing next to Ruth First at an ANC conference in Bloemfontein; in 1956, singing among 150 fellow accused at the marathon Treason Trial in Pretoria; a bearded Mandela bulked up by army fatigues, standing with Algerian Army commanders in 1962. Across the globe, television sets beam contrasting images of a youngish Mandela in his jackal-skin kaross worn toga-like as he strides defiantly in slow motion during his 1962 trial for leaving the country without a passport and inciting a strike. He was sentenced on 7 November 1962 to five years in prison. There are many more, a catalogue of the various incarnations he has had to pass through. The most enduring images, however, are of Mandela as a free man, a man who embodied freedom with such assuredness that it became synonymous with his name. In all this, the making of Mandela the symbol can be credited to the regime that threw him in prison.

In 1999 Nelson Mandela handed power to Thabo Mbeki, who served as South Africa's second democratically elected president.

Mandela the symbol: a leader gives power up

Therefore, itself rich in symbolism, one of Mandela’s most memorable gestures, judged counter-intuitive by Professor Njabulo Ndebele, was in 1997 when he stepped down as president of the ANC. The presidency of the ANC is held in high esteem for the simple reason that it confers on the incumbent the stewardship of the National Executive Committee, a council that could, if need be, bring about a resignation of the state president. Paradoxically, giving up power was Mandela’s most powerful moment. In his introduction to the chapter on Mandela in South Africa’s Nobel Laureates , edited by Kader Asmal, David Chidester and Wilmot James, Prof. Ndebele observes that a leader,

“too conscious of having power, and who wields it self-consciously, does not really have it. On the other hand, a leader who works with power, and who discovers the extent of it in the course of confronting situations whose resolution requires inevitable recourse to power, has vast amounts of it.”

Mandela’s action drew muted criticism from some of his superannuated brethren on the continent and far afield, who saw it as an incitement for their domestic masses to start questioning their extended tenure. For Mandela, leadership was mainly about advancing the cause of others, because he understood how they – especially strangers in neighbouring countries who suffered untold misery in sanctions and cross-border raids launched by the South African military – had paid a huge price. He was scathing of leaders, even “erstwhile revolutionaries [who] have easily succumbed to greed, and the tendency to divert public resources for personal enrichment”. He lauded the “universal respect and even admiration for those who are humble and simple by nature, and who have absolute confidence in all human beings irrespective of their social status. These are men and women, known and unknown, who have declared total war against all forms of gross violation of human rights wherever in the world such excesses occur.”

Therefore, when he was in various circumstances required to comment on the leadership in, say, the Southern African Development Community, he stressed the importance of serious planning for regional growth and development. These were not mere words or the rehearsed platitudes that characterise speeches in summits; coming from a generation of hard idealists who had grown up in the principle of a united Africa, Mandela believed that the current crop of leadership could turn the tide against poverty and inequality in the region. This because, as he put it, “our fortunes are so interdependent. None of us can achieve sustainable growth and development, or peace and stability, in isolation.” In this regard, people who acted as gatekeepers that cut off access to him and alienated him from his natural constituencies could get Mandela nettled.

“It sometimes pains me,” he wrote in his diary on 7 January 1998, “when dependable friends who have shared resources with us when we were alone in our fight against apartheid, but who are regarded by the staff as mere strangers bent on disturbing the President.”

Rivonia triallists Ahmed Kathrada, Andrew Mlangeni, Nelson Mandela and Denis Goldberg.

Mandela: cherishing life despite threats of dreadful outcomes

Today, as South Africa and the world gear up to celebrate the centenary of his birth, the inevitable question comes up: What would our country be like if Mandela had not stepped into the breach to assume leadership at a most perilous period of our history? Aligned to this question is the subtext in current debates about the economy, where queries are being raised – oftentimes with a real purpose to elicit knowledge and sometimes with an aim of breaking down what is held to be the mystique around Mandela – about whether the negotiations in the early 1990s were skewed against the black majority. Was the Mandela project a massive sell-out? Behind these unasked questions – one is helplessly forced to conclude – are justifications for the fancied sell-out: the old people were deferential to white counterparts on the negotiation table. They were scared of the white man.

Commentators tend to approach the debacle – the human tragedy – that characterised South Africa from its inception as a colonial construct to the present moment, where it struggles to integrate its discrete pieces into a coherent whole, much the same way sports fans do a post-match analysis. Armed with the advantage of hindsight and instant replay technology, the analyst can reimagine, but never quite empathise with, what took place in the arena. The act of recreating the past is always subverted by the gaps lying between what has been experienced by the flesh-and-blood actors – the gruelling trial that informs their decisions – and our collective grasp of their actions long after the noise of battle has died down.

It is always tempting, when dealing with a venerated figure like Mandela, for commentators who wish to ascribe to him an unassailable saintliness to urge detractors to remember what it was like back then, meaning that, given the overwhelming odds stacked against him, it would be understandable if Mandela capitulated and quailed before his captors. But all evidence points to a man who was single-mindedly steadfast in his quest to create a democratic and non-racial country of the future. The hardship was a temporary inconvenience, a time when he had to do the groundwork for a radical change, especially in the heady 1980s when repression in the country increased, a sign that the regime was losing its grip.

In a conversation with Richard Stengel, his interlocutor and collaborator towards the writing of Long Walk to Freedom , Mandela is asked if the people of his generation “still have a kind of deference towards the white man that will not exist in the younger generation?”. Or, put differently, if there was some residual inferiority to the white man roiling in the mind of leaders like Mandela. Mandela gave an emphatic no, because, he said,

“When you have been in the liberation movement for so long and you have been in and out of jail … you got our people now not to fear repression, to be prepared to challenge it. And if a man can challenge a law and go to jail and come out, that man is not likely to be intimidated, you see, by jail life, generally speaking. And therefore, even in our older generation, there is no inferiority except that it may be said that we are more mature in handling problems.”

We cannot today realistically know what Mandela et al felt when faced with incarceration. We have his word and the testimony of his compatriots. We do know, however, that it was a grim period, which none of us, certainly not the children of the dispossessed, would wish to revisit. The rash of memoirs by some of the principal and minor players of the hideous time puts a gloss on their culpability, where even securocrats like Niël Barnard come up smelling of roses; even the biographies by some of the warders are reminiscent of people striving very hard to put the events of the past through a colander whereby the grainy truth is sifted out and all we are left with is empty sweetness.

What we can take from what we know about Mandela is that he strove to enshroud himself and those around him with dignity that makes it hard for the enemy to unravel. From their arrival in prison, he insisted on being addressed as Mr Mandela. “You must fight the battle for dignity on the first day you go to jail,” he told Oprah Winfrey in an interview. “We put our foot down and insisted on being respected, even though we were prisoners.” This response cannot – by any stretch of the imagination – be credited to someone who is cowed by others, black or white.

Graffiti commemorating the Rivonia Trial, which ran from October 1963 to June 1964.

Mandela: putting words to eloquent silences

Even though privately concerned if his gamble backfired, Mandela’s readiness to face down the generals who spat fire and promised to put the country to the torch was an act of great courage. It is here, also, that his counter-intuitive stance towards leadership proved equal to the task: he defanged the right wing and brought it to be part of the negotiations towards a democratic future. Through the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which allowed for a long cathartic moment, violators of human rights stepped forth and owned up, thus ensuring some form of closure for their victims.

Not all were courageous, some following FW De Klerk in stalling about their culpability during South Africa’s darkest hours. It is here, I believe, that those who have no idea what instability can wreak – who are oblivious of the devastation in the blood-stained corners of the globe – scoff at Mandela’s gestures of reconciliation. As for the troubles South Africa sometimes find itself in, where the restive youth cries for reforms, it should be borne in mind that Mandela’s main preoccupation was to build this foundation on which our democratic society is based. To use a crass metaphor, a father builds a house but cannot be blamed for the incapacity of his children to improve on the dwelling.

He was not a saint, as he has repeatedly reminded us with his immortal quip that “a saint is a sinner who keeps on trying”. He had many transgressions, some of which would convert into virtues, in the scheme of things. Without verbalising it, he embodied what is credited to one-time president of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos, that leadership is the other side of the coin of loneliness and that, acting alone, the leader must accept everything alone.

Mandela knew fully well that the ANC was viscerally opposed to the idea of talking to the regime. By the time of the 1985 ANC consultative conference in Kabwe, Zambia, there were rumours of people in the ANC engaging in talks with Pretoria. Aware of the hostility to those talks, which were dismissed as enemy manoeuvres, OR Tambo had to steer a cautious course. But the practicalities of the times – the ouster of the ANC from Mozambique, cross-border raids in neighbouring countries and the clamour of Umkhonto weSizwe fighters that they wanted to go home – coalesced into an acceptance of the reality of a negotiated settlement. It would, of course, be accompanied by an intensification of armed actions inside the country.

Isolated from his support network, watching the carnage against defenceless people being played out on the daily news bulletins, Mandela started tentative steps towards brokering a negotiated settlement. He had consulted Walter Sisulu, Ahmed Kathrada and Govan Mbeki about this intention – and was told in no uncertain terms that this was a very bad idea. Much later, alone, Mandela went into action.

Mac Maharaj has said that Mandela was a man who took responsibility for his action. Having decided that the time had come for talks to start – an impulse no different from the moment he decided on armed action – Mandela knew he would have to go against the advice of the prison collective. In time, the collective – which also involved Oliver Tambo in Lusaka – accepted the strategy of talking to the enemy. He accepted that, in the event of the plan blowing up in his face, he would carry the can. In his own notes on leadership, Mandela has written that “the leader’s first task is to create a vision.

“His second is to create a following to help him implement the vision and to manage the process through effective teams. The people being led know where they are going because the leader has communicated the vision and the followers have bought into the goal he has set as well as the process of getting there.”

In the year of celebrating Mandela’s centenary, South Africa is still grappling with the process of getting “there”, the idealised destination no different from the Promised Land for the fabled biblical wanderers. Each generation has come up and defined its mission; land and economic transformation, twin imponderables that have been left unaddressed for centuries, stand out and cry for resolution. A new cadre of leaders asks questions and challenges the answers given as being not enough. Sometimes the questions go to the very legitimacy of the Constitution, an enduring irony given the provenance of the Constitution. What is significant is that the country has come to growth. Mandela has left. Many others, poets like Keorapetse Kgositsile, who were part of the generation after Mandela, have also left and many are, to use the poet’s words, in the departure lounge. The youth, dreaming dreams and hoping hopes, strives to carve out a reality that will ensure their own survival. They too will in time grow old and drag their increasingly disgruntled children into meetings and councils, to plan on how to change their lots. And Chloe, my grandniece, will not remember her hour of helplessness and hunger. The world will move on, secure in its moorings. Mauritian friend, Edouard Maunick, expresses the world’s appreciation in these lines:

I much hope to put my step in his And in unbroken eloquent silence Listen along a long long way To the unique and untold saga Of Mandela conquistador of freedom.

There is no doubt that Mandela, a modern titan, was as much the creator of history as he was its product. He could have chosen other routes to usher in the democracy that we now enjoy; he, however, chose alchemy of head and heart, logic and compassion, to coax out of a complex and volatile society, something of value. The recent transition of power that South Africa has seen, in which President Jacob Zuma – our latter-day Ozymandias – gave way to the democratic impulses entrenched in the ANC and embodied by Mandela’s close confidant, Cyril Ramaphosa, is testament to Mandela’s enduring personal triumph.

Essay on Nelson Mandela

Students are often asked to write an essay on Nelson Mandela in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in South Africa. He belonged to a royal family of the Thembu tribe.

Political Career

Mandela became politically active in his 20s, joining the African National Congress (ANC). He fought against apartheid.

Imprisonment

Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, from 1962 to 1990, for his political activities. He became a symbol of resistance.

Presidency and Legacy

After his release, Mandela was elected South Africa’s first black president in 1994. He is remembered as a global icon for peace and reconciliation.

250 Words Essay on Nelson Mandela

Introduction, early life and activism.

Born in 1918, Mandela’s political journey began with the African National Congress (ANC) in 1943. His involvement in anti-colonial politics and his commitment to the ANC’s defiance campaign against apartheid laws led to his arrest in 1962.

Imprisonment and Release

Mandela was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1964, spending 27 years in jail. His release in 1990 was a monumental moment, marking the beginning of apartheid’s end. Mandela’s resilience had become a beacon of hope for oppressed people worldwide.

In 1994, Mandela became South Africa’s first black President, leading the country towards multi-racial democracy. His leadership focused on dismantling the legacy of apartheid by tackling institutionalized racism and fostering racial reconciliation. Mandela’s legacy continues to inspire movements for civil rights and freedom across the globe.

Nelson Mandela’s life journey epitomizes the fight for human rights and equality. His resilience in the face of adversity and his unwavering commitment to justice serve as an enduring inspiration. Mandela’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit’s ability to triumph over oppression. His life story will forever remain a beacon of hope for generations to come.

500 Words Essay on Nelson Mandela

Introduction: the legacy of nelson mandela.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, a name synonymous with unyielding resilience, is a beacon of freedom, equality, and human dignity. Born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa, Mandela’s life was a testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of oppressive regimes.

In 1944, Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC), marking the beginning of his active involvement in the anti-apartheid movement. He believed in the principles of democracy, freedom, and equality, and dedicated his life to realizing these ideals for all South Africans.

Imprisonment and the Struggle against Apartheid

In 1962, Mandela was arrested for his anti-apartheid activities and was sentenced to life imprisonment. His Rivonia Trial in 1964 became a focal point in the global fight against apartheid. Despite being imprisoned, Mandela’s influence was not confined by the prison walls. His letters from jail became a powerful tool in rallying international support against apartheid.

Presidency and Post-Apartheid South Africa

Mandela’s release was followed by intense negotiations with then-President F.W. de Klerk, leading to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a multiracial government. In 1994, Mandela was elected as South Africa’s first black President in the nation’s first fully representative democratic election.

As President, Mandela worked tirelessly to heal the wounds of apartheid, focusing on reconciliation and unity. His government introduced policies aimed at combating poverty and inequality, and he played a crucial role in establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate human rights abuses during apartheid.

Legacy and Conclusion

Mandela’s journey from a small village in Mvezo to becoming one of the world’s most respected statesmen is a stark reminder of the indomitable human spirit. His life serves as an enduring symbol of resistance against racial segregation and a testament to the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. In the face of adversity, Mandela’s unwavering commitment to his principles provides a blueprint for future generations on the path towards justice and equality.

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• English Essay on Nelson Mandela

An Essay on Nelson Mandela is Available at Vedantu

The best analogy that can be given for Nelson Mandela to the Indian students is, Nelson Mandela was to Africa what Mahatma Gandhi was to India. Because Nelson Mandela did the same thing for Africa, As Mahatma Gandhi did for India. Nelson Mandela made the same sacrifices for Africa, as Mahatma Gandhi Made for India. Nelson Mandela believed in the same ideals and virtues as that of Mahatma Gandhi, which is to say Non-violence and truth, and for all his life he walked on the same path.

An Introduction

There was a time when facilities were divided among people on the basis of their skin colour. From the seat reservations in public transport to any other public facilities, everywhere, whites used to get better facilities whereas dark-skinned people, the blacks, got the worst services. White supremacy existed in every country under British colonialism. In some countries, racial discrimination was found on a larger scale whereas in others on a smaller scale. However, in South Africa, it became worse. 

Three-fourths of the total population were black people there. The country's economy used to run on the strength of their hard work, but all the good facilities were available to the whites. Although racial discrimination was there in South Africa for a long time, the National Party government made a rule in 1948 that blacks and whites would live in different places and the public facilities were divided according to their skin colours. Since good always triumphs over evil, the struggles of Nelson Mandela put an end to the rules of racial discrimination, after which everyone started getting equal facilities. It was not so easy. Nelson Mandela had to spend 28 years of his life in prison. Mandela was a man who followed Gandhi's path. He did this without taking up arms, without any bloodshed.

A Brief Background of Africa During the Time of Nelson Mandela.

Africa is not in any sense a stranger from the racial discrimination, exploitation, and horrors of British colonialism. Though many countries of Asia, such as India have faced all these problems, it, unfortunately, took a rather devastating form in Africa. The humans were divided by their skin colour, the fair one gets the reservations in all the public facilities and were considered high-class people, while the black was always looked down upon. Only because of their skin colour were they not the same as their fair counterparts. And these were the times in which Nelson Mandela was born.

A history of Nelson Mandela

It was the 18th of July 1918 when Rohlihala (Nelson) Mandela was born in the small village located on the banks of Mbashe River in South Africa, to mother Nosakeni and father Gadla henry. The name Rohilihala literally means ``Mischievous”, but his school teacher Miss Mdingane gave him the English name “Nelson'' because it was the custom during those times in Africa to give English names, and hence Rohilihala became “Nelson Mandela''. Nelson Mandela attended the Clark Barry Missionary school for his early schooling.

When Nelson Mandela was just 12 years old, an unfortunate thing happened in the form of the death of his father Gadla Henry. But Nelson Mandela’s family took so much care of him and never let the absence of the father affect the 12-year-old boy. Nelson Mandela was the only member of his family to attend the school, and hence his whole family supported him in all the aspects of his school.

He graduated from the Methodist Healdtown college, which was a college built especially for black people. This was the time when he had started his fight against injustice and inequality of racial discrimination. And here in this college, he met a man by the name of Olive Tambo, a relation with whom transformed into a lifelong friendship. Nelson Mandela always had full-fledged support of Oliver Tambo in his struggle against Apartheid, meaning apartness.

Apartheid was the policy in South Africa that governed the relations between the Whites, who were the minority, and the Black, who were the majority, in the latter half of the last century, that is to say, the 20th century. In the name of governance, all the Apartheid did was racial segregation and economic discrimination against the blacks. Nelson Mandela fought bravely against the Apartheid during his lifetime.

Nelson Mandela was born on 18 July 1918 in the village of Mvezo, South Africa. His mother's name was Nosakeni and his father's name was Gadla Henry. Earlier, Nelson Mandela was named Rohlihala by his parents, which means mischievous, but his school teacher changed his name to Nelson. Nelson Mandela did his early studies at Clark Barry Missionary School. Nelson Mandela was just 12 years old when his father died, but his family never let the absence of his father affect his life. His family continued to help him in every way for higher studies since Nelson was the only member of the whole family who went to school. 

He graduated from Healdtown College. Healdtown was a college specially built for black people. In this college, Nelson Mandela met a friend and remained friends with him throughout his life and always supported him in his struggle against Apartheid. Right from the days of college, he started the fight against racial discrimination and started gathering people, due to which he was expelled from college. In 1944, he joined the African National Congress, in which he had started the movement against racial discrimination. In 1947, he was elected as a  secretary of that party. Later many people joined him and strived towards their goal but in 1961, a case of treason was filed against Mandela and he was imprisoned along with some of his friends. Though he was later found innocent and was released, yet, again on 5th August 1962, he was arrested on charges of inciting the workers to go on strike. On 12th July 1964, after trials for almost 2 years, he was sentenced to life imprisonment. He was sent to the most strictly guarded jail for imprisonment but even after that, his courage never diminished. He also started sharing his opinions with the black prisoners in jail. On the other hand, his party also tried its best to get him released but failed. Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 28 years. Finally, in 1989, the government changed in South Africa and the liberal leader F. W. Clarke became the President of the country. Considering the struggle of Nelson and his party, he ordered the removal of all restrictions on black people and decided to release all the prisoners who were imprisoned without any serious charges.

A Quick Outline of Nelson Mandela’s Life from 1940 onwards.

1944 = joined the national congress of Africa.

1947 = elected as a secretary of the African national congress.

1961 = A case of treason was filed against him, and he was imprisoned along with his friends.

1962 = he was found innocent and was released from prison. But was again on 5th August of the same year on other charges.

1964 = sentenced to life imprisonment, and remained imprisoned for 28 years.

1989 = a government was changed, and Nelson Mandela was released, the following year.

1990 = Mandela was awarded a Bharat Ratna.

1993 = He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

1994 = Became the first president of the country

5 Dec 2013 = Passed away at the age of 95.

Nelson Mandela’s Struggles of Life

On February 1, 1990, Mandela was released from prison. In the Presidential election of South Africa that was held in 1994, black people could also participate. Mandela participated in this election and his party African National Congress formed the government with a majority. On 10 May 1994, Nelson Mandela became the first President of his country and made all rights equal for the whites and the blacks. Nelson Mandela, much like Mahatma Gandhi, followed a non-violent path, he considered Mahatma Gandhi as his inspiration. 

Nelson Mandela was awarded the Bharat Ratna, the most prestigious award of India, in 1990. He was the second foreigner to be given this award after Mother Teresa, who was awarded in 1980. In 1993, Nelson Mandela was awarded the Nobel Prize for world peace, for the struggle against Apartheid throughout his life, and to empower the blacks in South Africa. On December 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela passed away, at the age of 95. He says that “When a person considers the service of his country and people as his duty, he gets peace in doing that work. I think I have tried that and that is why I can sleep peacefully till the end.”

 Conclusion

Nelson Mandela, much like Mahatma Gandhi, advocated a nonviolent path, he considered Gandhi as his source of inspiration. For this reason, he is also called African Gandhi. Nelson Mandela has also been awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's biggest award in 1990.

FAQs on English Essay on Nelson Mandela

1. Who is Nelson Mandela?

Nelson Mandela raised his voice against racial discrimination in South Africa. He spent 28 years of his life in prison as a part of his struggle to put an end to racial discrimination in South Africa. After this, blacks and whites were entitled to equal rights, and they enjoyed equal public facilities.

2. Name Nelson Mandela’s Publication?

Some of Nelson Mandela’s publications are as follows.

No Easy Walk to Freedom

The Struggle is my Life

In His Own Words

I am Prepared to Die

Long Walk To Freedom

3. What Did Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi Have in Common?

Nelson Mandela, much like Mahatma Gandhi, advocated a nonviolent path, he considered Gandhi as his source of inspiration. He struggled for years against white supremacy without any armed movements and bloodshed.

4. What are the lessons that can be learned from the life of Nelson Mandela?

There are quite many lessons to be learned from the life of Nelson Mandela:

Keep Working: Nelson Mandela never stopped working towards his aim he always kept on working.

Remain Focused: From the very early stage of his life he was very clear about his aim and he remained focused on it for the rest of his life.

Work for others: Nelson Mandela always worked for others and hence he is immortalized in the memory of our memory. He gave all his life for the selfless work of his country.

5. Why should I use the essay provided by Vedantu, instead of writing my own?

It is always a very good idea to write essays by yourself, but it is also a good idea to have some guidance in doing the same. And hence the essay that Vedantu provides on the life of Nelson Mandela can serve the purpose of a guide to the students. Furthermore, the essay that Vedantu provides is designed from the perspective of the students and that too by the expert teachers. Therefore, it gives a good idea regarding how to approach such an essay elaborately.

6. What are the lessons that can be learned from the life of Nelson Mandela?

7. Why should I use the essay provided by Vedantu, instead of writing my own?

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15+ Motivational Quotes By Nelson Mandela To Steer Smoothly Through Life

Are you on the verge of losing hope and giving in to the burdens of your life? If yes, here are some motivational quotes by Nelson Mandela to help you through every walk of life. 

• Rajoshi Purkait
• Updated - 2024-08-05, 20:37 IST

Nelson Mandela Quotes On Education

Nelson Mandela Quotes About Life

Nelson mandela quotes on success.

Nelson Mandela Quotes On Freedom

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Home — Essay Samples — Government & Politics — Nelson Mandela — Nelson Mandela’s Speeches: A Rhetorical Analysis

Nelson Mandela's Speeches: a Rhetorical Analysis

• Categories: Nelson Mandela Polite Speech

About this sample

Words: 767 |

Published: Feb 7, 2024

Words: 767 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Overview of the speech, analysis of the speech, rhetorical devices used in the speech, tone of the speech, historical context of the speech, key themes in the speech, impact of the speech.

• Mandela, N. (1964). I am Prepared to Die. Retrieved from https://www.nelsonmandela.org/omalley/cis/omalley/OMalleyWeb/03_Speeches/03_Interviews_and_testimony/64/646_20_04_1964_I_am_prepared_to_die.htm
• Mandela, N. (1994). Long Walk to Freedom. Little, Brown and Company.
• Kotzé, H. (2014). The Rhetoric of Mandela’s Rivonia Trial Speech. Journal of Literary Studies, 30(2), 97-107.

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News and updates from the Nelson Mandela School

Siviwe Gwarube paid a surprise visit to her fellow MDPP 2024 cohort during their contact session on campus. Ms Gwarube has been appointed Minister of Basic Education since July 2024.

From the Director's Desk

The School continues to grow and our mission to develop the next generation of Africa’s ethical leaders remains steadfast. The launch of the Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance in May 2024 was a defining moment in the history of the School.  We are grateful for the many messages of support received on this occasion including from  the AfCFTA Secretariat, Wamkele Mene and judge Albie Sachs for the Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance. The Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance will serve emerging leaders from across the African continent. The precinct, which will be designed through an architectural design competition, will offer interactive public art installations, contemplative walkways, and meeting areas designed to provide for reflection on the life and times of Nelson Mandela. The concept of leadership is engaging citizens and the political classes  around the world as elections are taking place and many countries are moving backwards, sliding into more populist and authoritarian regimes and losing sight of the values that Nelson Mandela taught and demonstrated in his own life of public service.   It is with this understanding that we have launched a leadership series this year that has gathered a lot of interest on the continent. The School aspires to become a centre of debate and dialogue on Leadership and Democratic Governance - providing guidance and insights to the next generation of African leaders. During first half of 2024 the School has been engaging with Universities and think tanks around the world on partnerships to build innovative theoretical frameworks and approaches that will deepen our understanding of Leadership for transformative changes that are needed to address today’s complex challenges. In this context the School has joined a global research project on Democracy and Development led by the Central European University Democratic Institute (CEU-DI) and has also partnered with the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) to launch a Nelson Mandela Leadership for Social Change executive education programme. In addition, the School has also partnered with the French development agency (AfD) to build a network of think tanks and Universities on the African continent.  Thank you for your ongoing support, we are excited about what lies ahead. We aim to expand our academic programmes, policy-driven research and to strengthen our networks across the continent. 

Prof Faizel Ismail Director  The Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance University of Cape Town

The Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance launch

“The Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre will promote the ideals of Chuck Feeney. It will educate, train and develop ethical leadership that serves communities, nations and the world. I thank the Nelson Mandela Foundation for its steadfast support and guidance to ensure that this partnership honours Madiba’s legacy. We are conscious of the responsibility of using Mandela’s name,” Emeritus Professor Daya Reddy.

Photos: Lerato Maduna

Dr Musa Nxele is the newly appointed academic director

Dr Musa Nxele took the reins of the Academic Directorship on 1 June 2024. Dr Nxele holds a PhD in Economics from the Université de Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and a PhD in Development Policy and Practice from the University of Cape Town. He teaches the political economy of policymaking and development. His research currently focuses on the politics of private investment and the economics of natural resources. Congratulations to Dr Nxele on this significant position. With his thoughtful and dedicated leadership, the Academic programme is growing exponentially across Africa. In 2025, the School will launch its newly designed PGDip in Development Policy and Practice online to make it more accessible and affordable.

The School’s Academic Programme celebrates a decade of academic excellence

The Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town marked a significant milestone this July, reflecting a decade of dedication to fostering leadership, governance, and public service across Africa. It has been ten years since the School's Academic Programmes started. Over 250 students have registered for postgraduate studies at the School since 2014. This decade-long journey highlights the School's impactful contribution to public service and governance in Africa.

Photos: Je'nine May

The Nelson Mandela School is proud to be part of the University of Cape Town (UCT) Research in advancing Africa. Learn more about how UCT Research creates impactful knowledge to drive economic growth and social progress.

The leadership we need

The students, graduates and fellows of the Nelson Mandela School continue to make impact in their respective spheres of influence throughout the continent. We are incredibly proud to know that our work transcends the lecture room and it is the bridge in which communities are impacted. As the School, we believe that our students hold the hope of the leadership we need. 

Join us as we celebrate some of our students and fellows in their newly appointed public office positions:

• Siviwe Gwarube (MDPP, 2024 cohort) - Minister of Basic Education 
• Edwin Bath (MDPP alumnus, 2022 cohort) - Member of Parliament 
• Vuyolwethu Zungula (MPhil alumnus, 2022 cohort) - Member of the National Assembly 
• Refiloe Nt’sekhe (MDPP alumna, 2019 cohort) - Member of Provincial Legislature
• Ciska Jordaan (SALGA Women in Leadership fellow) - Member of the National Assembly 

                                                                                   ....................................... The impact of the School’s alumni and students extend beyond public office; we are pleased to introduce one such individual, Richard Teny. Richard is a South Sudanese national who has devoted his entire career to providing high-quality and effective leadership in the field of humanitarian and social development. He currently serves as the Executive Director for Coalition for Humanity (CH), a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to addressing livelihood challenges faced by the people of South Sudan. Richard is a PhD candidate after completing his Master of Development Policy and Practice (MDPP) at the Nelson Mandela School. It is encouraging to see how Richard effectively applies the skills and knowledge acquired from MDPP to drive the growth and development of his individual staff members, granting them sufficient autonomy and guidance to challenge their performance limits. This approach not only contributes to the professional development of the team but also aligns with the broader mission of the organization, Coalition for Humanity – to create resilient communities that can thrive amidst challenges. His journey exemplifies a harmonious blend of leadership, academia, and a profound commitment to the well-being of communities in South Sudan.

The School is a convening space for policy-driven dialogues

One of the objectives at the School is to provide critical thinking on the challenges of democratic governance in Africa by providing evidence-based insights to inform policy decisions and promote informed public discourse. During the first half of 2024 the Nelson Mandela School convened several conversations on Leadership and Democratic Governance.

Conversations with former judge Albie Sachs On the eve of South Africa’s seventh democratic election, while the rainbow nation and its achievements (or lack thereof) is placed under scrutiny, the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town (UCT) hosted an intimate afternoon to reflect on the early years of Constitutionalism.

Attendees in the room and online, who joined the third instalment of the school’s Democratic Governance and Leadership series, were in good company, as anti-apartheid stalwart and former Constitutional Court judge Albie Sachs pulled up a chair and discussed the independence of the country’s highest court. The dialogue tied together a thought-provoking series, which included a single common theme: the late former president Nelson Mandela.

Moderated by the School’s Penny Parenzee, Sachs’s last talk of the series was held on Wednesday, 8 May, and was titled “Mandela and our constitutional democracy”. Prior discussions were titled “Mandela the lawbreaker” and specifically touched on the difficult period of the country’s struggle for liberation during the dark days of apartheid; and “Mandela and the making of our Constitution”, which explored the transition from apartheid to democracy. Click on this link to learn more.

Corruption: the centre of the democratic challenge Ferial Haffajee and Advocate Gary Pienaar participated in the Leadership and Democratic Governance series and shared their thought-provoking views on “Corruption: the centre of the democratic challenge.” Dr Musa Nxele moderated this engaging conversation.Through this series the School aims to hold space for inspirational insights to help us formulate leadership strategies and practical solutions to rebuild resilient, democratic institutions.

.............................

  The School hosted a discussion on  State-Civil Society Organisations Relations | re-igniting social movements in the era of authoritarianism and polarisation This discussion formed part of the Leadership series, a Leadership for social change theory aimed at developing a holistic analytical framework that will integrate the different elements that constitute Leadership and influence its ability to drive change. Mark Heywood moderated the discussion between Sibongile Ndashe, Tania Haddad and Brian Raftopoulos.

  The Democratic Developmental State and Industrialisation: building on successes and failures One of the challenges facing Africa today is how to improve the livelihoods of its citizens. Commodity dependence and weak structural transformation are the main reasons for the low levels of development in Africa. In light of this, the Nelson Mandela School hosted a discussion on the challenge of economic transformation in South Africa and the African continent.  In light of this, the Nelson Mandela School hosted a discussion on the challenge of economic transformation in South Africa and the African continent. Dr Alecia Ndlovu moderated an interactive conversation between Fiona Tregenna, Arkebe Oqubay, Adeyemi Dipeolu and Rob Davies.

  Nelson Mandela Leadership Dialogue: Young Leaders Driving Social Change Every day is #MandelaDay at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance. This year's commemoration was particularly special because we co-hosted the 'Nelson Mandela Leadership Dialogue: Young Leaders Driving Social Change' webinar with our partners at the United Nations System Staff College - UNSSC and the American University of Beirut (AUB). Watch and listen to this engaging conversation on how multi-actor and intergenerational approaches can drive transformative changes, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

  Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 The School’s Master of Development Policy and Practice (MDPP) 2024 cohort joined a team of community activists from Khayelitsha for Mandela Day. The visit to Bulumko Secondary School in Khayelitsha allowed the students to hear what the team was doing through arts and sports. The visit also included an interactive art therapy session and food gardening. Sophumla Ntoyabo (food security enthusiast), Mawethu Mapotolo (artist and poet), and Dumisani Wambi (basketball coach) shared their community work and aspirations with students with the hope of having future collaborations with the School.  

AfCFTA Cotton, Textiles and Apparel Validation Workshop

The School is actively involved in Africa's structural transformation and economic development through its academic and research programmes. It has partnered with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat to support the negotiations and implementation of the AfCFTA and to contribute to research in the development of regional value chains across Africa. The impasse in the negotiations on the Rules of Origin, created the need to build a vision for a regional value chain in the fibre to textile and apparel value chain. The AfCFTA Secretariat established the AfCFTA Trade and Industrial Development Advisory Council in 2022, to assist the AfCFTA Secretariat. Faizel Ismail convenes the Council and Noncedo Vutula (a Senior Research Fellow in the School) coordinates the work of the Advisory Council. The Advisory Council is currently conducting consultations with the private sector that represent the different segments of the value chain with the aim to: (a) develop a five-year strategic plan for a continental fibre-to-garment value chain and (b) support the ongoing negotiations in the AfCFTA. 

Three broad topics that are critical for the development of the sector were addressed by three working groups. These are: (i) investment, sustainability, and innovation, (ii) developing manufacturing capabilities and export competitiveness, and (iii) addressing non-tariff barriers and Rules of Origin. The challenges, opportunities, and considerations raised by the private sector in the three separate working groups were collated and used to inform the continental CTA vision document, representing the merging of the working groups into one singular AfCFTA CTA Working Group.

To that end, on 23 July 2024, the AfCFTA Cotton, Textile, and Apparel Validation Workshop was held to present the vision document to the private sector and to encourage the various regions of the continent to endorse the document as something that represents their views and can be used to develop a strategic implementation plan for the continent.

.........................

Faculty members on the move

• Dr Marianne Camerer was part of a Workshop on Public Ethics in South Africa: Research and Teaching in the context of the findings of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, hosted at Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS). 
• Prof Faizel Ismail has been appointed as a Senior Research Advisor (non-remunerated) at the University of Oxford’s Technology and Management Centre for Development (TMCD) in July 2024. He has also been appointed by the Tony Blair Institute in July 2024 to be part of an Industrial Development Advisory Council (non-remunerated) established for the Africa region.

In the news

• School with a vision — ‘living memorial’ to Nelson Mandela planned for slopes of Table Mountain  
• Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre will make a significant contribution to scholarship  
• ' Learning to work together at the highest level of power is essential, especially now that President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled the final shape of our new government of national unity ,' writes Prof Faizel Ismail. This op-ed was first published by the Daily Maverick.  
• An opinion piece written by Prof Brian Raftopoulos, Senior Research Fellow at the Nelson Mandela School | South Africa’s recent election sends a clear message to Zanu-PF and Zimbabwe  
• ' The debt situation in African countries has escalated to a critical juncture, as multiple factors compound the challenges they confront. Three pivotal elements significantly contribute to this predicament ,' writes Prof Carlos Lopes.   
• Former Constitutional Court judge and anti-apartheid activist Albie Sachs discussed the independence of the Constitutional Court during an afternoon sitting at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at UCT. 
• ' China and Africa must ensure relationship remains solid amid growing challenges ,' writes Prof Carlos Lopes

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