Johannesburg - Tributes poured in for Nelson Mandela as people from all quarters marked the first anniversary of his death on Friday.
He was also remembered around the world.
The SA government also went all-out with events commemorating his death.
At the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Acting President Cyril Ramaphosa said the spirit of the anti-apartheid icon lived on and continued to inspire the nation.
“Although we no longer feel his physical presence, his spirit continues to inspire us. It continues to fortify us,” Ramaphosa said.
“His spirit enjoins us to continue to strive for peace, freedom and justice.”
Several members of Mandela’s family, including his grandson Mandla, granddaughter Ndileka, Struggle veterans such as Ahmed Kathrada, George Bizos and Sophie de Bruyn, and dignitaries attended.
Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel, said at the commemoration in Pretoria that he was now happy and smiling wherever he was.
“I know that he is smiling and happy among the family he chose to build, the family he chose to build with Walter Sisulu, OR Tambo, Lilian Ngoyi and so on.”
He had built a family of strong men and women, Machel said.
“On the day of his passing I was not able to think.
“I was numb…
“But, looking back, I can imagine him tall and proud, walking, and all of them rising to welcome him…
“I know Madiba is in good hands,” Machel said.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura said Mandela would for ever be remembered for dedicating his life to the “liberation of humankind from all forms of discrimination, oppression and exploitation”.
“Through his selfless service and uncompromising fidelity to the cause and concerns of the people, he has become an everlasting monument engraved in the hearts of the overwhelming majority of our people, young and old, black and white, rich and poor.”
Paying tribute to Mandela on Friday, the ANC expressed gratitude for the “selflessness and unwavering” contribution he made to the party.
“A product and maker of history, Comrade Nelson Mandela lived his life pursuing the values and principles of the ANC,” treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize said.
Mkhize said the money Mandela had left for the ANC in his will would be used to establish a trust in his name.
“The trust will work with other sectors of society, including academia and civil society, to keep Madiba’s legacy alive through the education of generations still to come about the founding values of the African National Congress as lived by Comrade Nelson Mandela and his comrades.”
The ANC’s sentiments about Mandela’s character were echoed by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), who described him as “a selfless leader, a peacemaker and a freedom fighter”.
Acting NUM spokesman Livhuwani Mamburu said Mandela was a good friend of mineworkers as well as energy and construction workers.
“He inspired and motivated them on many occasions to take education seriously so that they can empower themselves and their communities,” he said in a statement.
Mining company Anglo American said Mandela’s contribution to the country, including the influence he had on the constitution and the economy, was immeasurable.
“Madiba was integral to the ushering in of democracy in South Africa, and he led our country with distinction, stature and humility throughout his presidency,” executive director Khanyisile Kweyama said.
“He is recognised worldwide in perpetuity as a giant among men, an iconic leader who fought throughout his life not only for equality, but for the basic human rights of all.”
Sunday Independent