Nelson Mandela showed unrivalled leadership and courage during his term as president of South Africa, MTN Group president and chief executive Sifiso Dabengwa said on Friday, following the death of the former statesman on Thursday night.
“Former president Mandela leaves behind a rich legacy of reconciliation, world peace, and the triumph of the human spirit over all adversity,” Dabengwa said in a statement.
“He never lost his compassion, humility, and common humanity. He's an inspiration to us all. He taught us to love ourselves, to love one another, and to love our country.
“So, as we celebrate his selfless efforts on behalf of human dignity, it also represents an enduring challenge for us all.”
Dabengwa said Mandela would be remembered for his relentless pursuit of freedom and democracy.
“Even after 27 years of prison and hardship, only one thing counted for Madiba, as Mandela was affectionately called by his clan name Ä creating a democratic, prosperous future for all the people of the new South Africa.
“This combination of humanity and unique statesmanship made his true greatness manifest for the entire world.” -Sapa