Johannesburg - The Houghton home, where former president Nelson Mandela was recovering on Sunday, was being decorated by ever-growing piles of stones from well-wishers.
Mally Mokoena wrote: “If we had our way we could keep you forever”.
Another stone read: “You are an inspiration”.
Mandela was released from hospital on Saturday having spent the last nine days receiving treatment for reoccurring lung problems.
A guard on the street corner kept watch as journalists, cameramen and photographers milled around and spoke among themselves.
A generator punctured the still Sunday afternoon with its constant grumble while four journalists ate lunch on a portable table with matching chairs.
Other journalists had set up a camping tent, gazebos and cameras already pointed directly at Madiba's driveway.
A number of cars were parked outside Mandela's house, one sporting a military number plate.
Members of the public slowed down and even took pictures as they drove past.
Earlier, Mandela's grandson Mandla said the global icon's discharge from hospital was a cause for celebration all over the world.
“The past few days since Madiba was admitted to hospital, the family has been deeply touched by the outpouring of prayers and the overwhelming messages of goodwill from all South Africans and our international friends,” he said in a statement.
The family was “ecstatic” that Mandela was home and continued to recuperate well for a man of his age.
Mandla extended gratitude to the SA National Defence Force doctors who had treated his grandfather. - Sapa