As an anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician and philanthropist, former President Mandela led a nation to unite despite their differences, fostering a culture of forgiveness, reconciliation and acceptance.
Madiba’s grace and good humour, combined with his ability to acknowledge his own weaknesses allowed him to become an accessible figure to a nation in desperate need of an exemplary leader. As he himself once said, “I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.”
Having fought diligently to bring our nation together he inspires us, as citizens of this Rainbow Nation, to honour his legacy not only by uniting to celebrate his life but also by striving to exemplify the ideals for which he stood. His passion for freedom and justice fostered new hope. It is up to us to carry forward the torch and work towards a better society where we can live as a nation united by the strength of our convictions.
We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Madiba’s family, and we also extend to them our gratitude, both for sharing him with the world and for allowing us to be inspired by him and his unfaltering commitment to change. His life’s work meant many sacrifices for, and from, his family and we thank them for this.
As we reflect on Madiba’s life, let us not forget that what he has left behind is not only a legacy of unity and change but a challenge to us, a challenge to make a difference, to lead lives guided not by hate, but by love.
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” ~ Nelson Mandela
May God bless his memory and keep him in peace. Hamba Kahle Madiba.