TRIBUTE TO MADIBA NELSON MANDELA.

Madiba, as he was fondly called was the true epitome of a great statesman. Indeed a global one, for he was not characterised by the sit-tight mentality of some African dictators, evidenced in his one term-presidency, by choice, of South Africa even after he had given up 27 years of his life in a jail on Robben Island as a sacrifice for the South Africa of his dreams; one devoid of sharp racial discrimination and inequalities known as Apartheid.

The Apartheid regime in South Africa was characterised by brutality and killings of a black majority by white minority in the name of racism and superiority and the great Madiba was a foremost freedom fighter, together with his colleagues at the ANC. Little wonder that upon his release from prison he was to become the first black president of South Africa and the founding father of modern day South Africa.

A man like Madiba does not die. Indeed he is ever present in our psyche, in our political consciousness, for what he has done for the African continent and indeed the black race. A man of uncommon courage, perseverance, dignity, forgiveness; he forgave his political enemies and oppressors, forthrightness, integrity, an astute politician, Madiba lives on forever.

May His gentle soul rest in perfect peace.Amen