Johannesburg - "For every corrupt politician, there is a corrupt businessperson."
These were the words of mining magnate Patrice Motsepe speaking at the 16th annual Nelson Mandela lecture, taking place at the Wanderers stadium in Johannesburg.
The annual lecture is set to delivered by Obama will deliver the under the theme: “Renewing the Mandela Legacy and Promoting Active Citizenship in a Changing World”
Speaking on behalf of the Motsepe Foundation, which was instrumental in organising for Obama to speak at the lecture, Motsepe touched on the scourge of corruption in both government the private sector.
He said contrary to what many believe, corruption was not only in government but in the private sector too.
"Businesses should have zero tolerance to corruption," he said.
Motsepe also said many people have precious memories of Mandela and shared his. He recalled a memorable meeting he had with Mandela during which the latter called him aside.
"He said to me 'there's something I liked with what you said at a previous meeting... you made a statement that the future of the educated and the wealthy is SA."
Chairman of the Nelson Mandela Foundation board of directors, Prof Njabulo Ndebele, was very happy about the turn out to the lecture, saying it had always been Struggle icon Ahmed Kathrada's wish to have the lecture held at a stadium.
"His wish finally came true," he said to rousing applause.
Ndebele also shared memorable anecdotes of the late statesman which were met with much laughter by the crowds.
The lecture has drawn dignitaries from all over the world including Sir Richard Branson as well as Princess Charlene of Monaco as well as thousands of ordinary citizens.