South African President Jacob Zuma has
praised Nelson Mandela for trading his
personal comfort for the freedom of South
Africans.
At a memorial service at the FNB stadium in
Johannesburg Mr. Zumah said Nelson
Mandela would be remembered for his
selflessness.
Zuma who had to weather the boos and
chants from the thousands of fans gathered
at the stadium said Mandela was not only
called the father of South Africa just for the
sake of it.
"We do not call Madiba the father of our
rainbow nation merely for political
correctness or relevance.
"We do so because he laid the firm
foundation for the South Africa of our
dreams. One that is united, non-racial non-
sexist, democratic and prosperous.
"We do because Madiba, once a courageous
leader; courageous leaders are able to
abandon their narrow concerns for bigger
and all embracing dreams even if those
dreams come at a huge cost.
Madiba embodied this trait," he touted.
Describing Mandela as "fearless freedom
fighter" Zuma commended Mandela for
resisting the Apartheid system of government.
The memorial service was one of the biggest
gatherings of international dignitaries in recent years.
US President Barack Obama who led a
delegation of ex- Presidents said Mr. Mandela
achievements must inspire Africa to
greatness.
He said the youth around the world can and
must emulate the good example of Nelson
Mandela to spur them on to greatness.
"Thirty years ago while still a student, I learnt
of Nelson Mandela and the struggles taking
place in this beautiful land and its spurred
something in me and woke me up to my
responsibilities and to others and to myself
and it set me out on an improbable journey
that finds me here today," he said.
The service was attended by many World
leaders, past and present including Ghana's
John Mahama.
