Africa’s Giant

Nelson Mandela: July 18, 1918 — December 5, 2013

“Although it has come at the advanced age of 95, Madiba’s death will create a huge vacuum that will be difficult to fill in our continent. He will be sorely missed by all who cherish love, peace and freedom the world over.” — Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan

“Like a most precious diamond honed deep beneath the surface of the earth, the Madiba who emerged from prison in January 1990 was virtually flawless. … Instead of calling for his pound of flesh, he proclaimed the message of forgiveness and reconciliation, inspiring others by his example to extraordinary acts of nobility of spirit.” — Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

“We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. But let me say to the people of Africa, and young people around the world: You can make  his life’s work your own.” — U.S. President Barack Obama

“Your long walk to freedom has ended in a physical sense. Our own journey continues. We have to continue working to build the kind of society you worked tirelessly
to construct. … South Africa  will continue to rise.” — South African President Jacob Zuma

Nelson Mandela will be remembered as a man who gave all for freedom and forgave all for peace. South Africa’s first black president and the greatest warrior in the fight against the nation’s apartheid regime spent 27 years as a political prisoner. Upon his release in 1990, he stood at the crossroads of retribution and reconciliation. His choice, and his leadership as president, pulled a nation out of darkness and set a standard for the world. Mandela, known affectionately as Madiba, died December 5, 2013. People from all nations mourned. Above are some words from those who knew and admired him.