90 world leaders to attend Mandela’s funeral

Nelson Mandela… Photo: courtesy http://www.mandela.gov.za

Mandela died on December 5.
The South African government has confirmed that President Goodluck Jonathan, alongside 89 other world leaders, will be attending activities leading to the funeral of late South African anti-apartheid leader, Nelson Mandela.
A press release by the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation described the late leader an “international icon and symbol of hope for the oppressed and marginalised people across the globe.”
Outside this official list, countless of global icons in sports, entertainment, humanitarian organisations, and business are also expected in the country in the coming days to honour the revered leader.
“He will always be remembered worldwide for his values and dedication to the service of humanity in the fields of conflict resolution, reconciliation, the promotion and protection of the rights of children, gender equality and the uplifting of the poor,” the statement added.
Mandela died on December 5 after a prolonged battle with lung infection. He will be buried on December 15 following a week-long activities including services of songs in various South African cities and a national service of mourning at the 95,000-seater Johannesburg stadium, the venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup final on Tuesday. His body will also lie in state from Wednesday, December 11, to Friday, December 13, at the Union Buildings in the capital, Pretoria. He was 95 years old.