Soweto – The atmosphere at FNB Stadium is electric as thousands of South Africans start to fill the venue where the Memorial Service of former President Nelson Mandela will be held later this morning.
Liberation songs can be heard throughout the stadium, as South Africans celebrate the life of the world icon the best way they know how, through song and dance. For the revered statesman, who passed away on Thursday, 5 December, there can be no greater ode than one of the most popular songs dedicated to him by the nation: “Nelson Mandela, akekho ofana nawe (there is no one like you)”.
People carrying posters bearing Mandela’s image continue to sing and dance in the rain, accompanied by the sound of vuvuzelas and whistles – a scene which evokes memories from the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Indeed this is another proud moment in South Africa’s history, as the world descends on its shores to bid a fitting farewell to the father of the nation. At least 91 Heads of State and Government from all over the world will congregate at the stadium to share with over 80 000 South Africans the historic moment of saying goodbye to one of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen.
The ceremony will start at 11am, with President Jacob Zuma scheduled to deliver the keynote address. – SAnews.gov.za
