Johannesburg - The formal programme at the National Memorial Service of former President Nelson Mandela is expected to get underway soon at FNB Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, as rain continues to fall from the heavens.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) brass band has already taken its position on the stage.
President Jacob Zuma and other world leaders, including US President Barack Obama, are among those who will take to the podium to honour the man widely regarded as the father of the nation.
Scores of people continue to stream into the stadium, despite the rainy weather, seen in several African cultures as a blessing.
President Jacob Zuma has taken his place on his stage.
Easlier, former President Thabo Mbeki walked up to take his place in the area designated for dignitaries. An emotional Graca Machel, Mandela’s wife, and his former wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela have joined the rest of the family as they wait for the programme to get underway.
The weather has done little to deter South Africans from gathering at the Calabash stadium, where crowds continue to sing struggle songs.
Singer PJ Powers and ordinary South Africans stood patiently waiting for the programme to begin.
Mandela died at his Houghton home in Johannesburg on Thursday. He was 95.
In the lead up to the official memorial, President Zuma had declared Sunday as a Day of Reflection and Prayer, a call which was heeded across the country.
Among those expected to speak first is struggle stalwart Andrew Mlangeni.
US singer/activist Bono and actress Charlize Theron have also arrived. - SAnews.gov.za
