Soweto - Crowds continue to gather and enthusiastically sing freedom songs outside former President Nelson Mandela’s old home in Soweto.
The house located at number 8115 in Vilakazi Street has been abuzz since the news of Madiba’s death on Thursday night.
Roads leading to the street have been cordoned off, as both locals and tourists continue to celebrate Mandela’s life through song and dance. Flowers paying tribute to the former statesman have been laid in front of the house, which is now a museum.
People are writing condolence messages on the white board mounted at the gate of the house where Mandela and his first wife Evelyn Ntoko Mase moved in in 1946.
Business has also boomed for vendors who are selling food, sweets, ice cream, drinks, art and memorabilia bearing Mandela’s face.
There are also scores of international media houses who have booked spots at neighbouring houses as well as a high presence of metro police.
A massive memorial service will be held at FNB stadium in Soweto on Tuesday.
From December 11 to 13, Madiba’s remains will lie in state at the seat of government, the Union Buildings, in Pretoria.
He will then be honoured with a state funeral next Sunday at his home village of Qunu in the Eastern Cape.
The funeral is expected to attract scores of former and current presidents. The White House has already confirmed that President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle will attend.
They will be joined by former first couple George and Laura Bush as well as former President Bill Clinton, who was in office when Mandela came into office.
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff is also reported to be among the dignitaries attending the funeral. - SAnews.gov.za
