Pretoria – US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama will travel to South Africa next week to pay their last respects to the late former President Nelson Mandela.
The Obamas will be joined by former US President George W. Bush and wife Laura Bush, as well as former US President Bill Clinton, along with his wife, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
According to the White House, the Americans will "pay their respects to the memory of Nelson Mandela and participate in memorial events” honouring the passing of the anti-apartheid leader.
It is unclear when they will land as travel arrangements are still being made.
Obama had paid a glowing tribute to Mandela, whom he regards as his own personal hero.
“They're grieving the loss of a man, a moral giant who embodied dignity, courage and hope, and sought to bring about justice not only in South Africa, but I think to inspire millions around the world,” said Obama on Thursday.
President Jacob Zuma has declared a week of national mourning. Sunday, 8 December has been declared a Day of Prayer and Reflection.
On this day, the nation has been called upon to gather at all places of worship to pray and hold services and reflect on Madiba’s life and his contribution to the world.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, followed by the official state funeral at his home village in Qunu in the Eastern Cape. However, during the period of mourning, several memorials will be held in all provinces and regions. – SAnews.gov.za
