From 2013 Victory to 2014 Victory

From 2013 Victory to 2014 Victory 

Keep the momentum, don't slow down nor increase the pace, 2013 is ending and 2014 is beginning but remember you can only go forward if you aim higher and believe that you can reach that height. 

I wish each and everyone of you a very Prosperous New Year ok? 

Wherever you are, don't you ever think that I forgot about you; I am doing the Will of God and you are always in my prayers, so please just walk freely and know that you are covered. My prayers are on each and every individual I know and those I don't know. 

From 2013 Victory>>>>>>> to 2014 Victory...Waya Waya 

Remain Blessed "Much Love"

Donald caught speeding (182km/h on 120km/h zone)

Donald Moatshe

Durban - Award-winning singer Donald Moatshe was arrested after he was caught speeding on the N2 in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, traffic police said on Sunday.

"He was driving a silver Audi Q3 and was caught driving at 182km/h on a 120km/h zone," said road traffic inspectorate spokesperson Zinhle Mngomezulu.

Moatshe was with a couple of friends from Swaziland, she said.

The musician was granted a R2 500 bail.

He is expected to appear in the Umhlali Magistrate's Court on Monday.

"Where do you see yourself in 7 years?"

Seven year plan! (Invite God in it)

2014 - ?

2015 - ?

2016 - ?

2017 - ?

2018 - ?

2019 - ?

2020 - ?

ntlele.bolgspot.com

Pure Single Woman of Valour, "Did you know that Ruth proposed to Boaz to marry her?" She showed interest to the husband of her dreams.

Ruth 3  He said, "Who are you?" She replied, "I am Ruth, your servant. Marry your servant, for you are a guardian of the family interests."

He said, "May you be rewarded by the Lord, my dear! This act of devotion is greater than what you did before. For you have not sought to marry one of the young men, whether rich or poor.

Now, my dear, don't worry! I intend to do for you everything you propose, for everyone in the village knows that you are a worthy woman. ntlele.blogspot.com

Year of Supernaturals "2014"

Rise beyond Expectations, no limits; a big year ahead.

ntlele.blogspot.com

The People Have Violated Their Covenant with God

Jeremiah 12 4. How long must the land be parched and the grass in every field be withered? How long must the animals and the birds die because of the wickedness of the people who live in this land? For these people boast, "God will not see what happens to us."

5. The Lord answered, "If you have raced on foot against men and they have worn you out, how will you be able to compete with horses? And if you feel secure only in safe and open country, how will you manage in the thick undergrowth along the Jordan River?

6. As a matter of fact, even your own brothers and the members of your own family have betrayed you too. Even they have plotted to do away with you. So do not trust them even when they say kind things to you.

Former PM statue moved for Mandela

The new Nelson Mandela statue at the Union Buildings. The statue is 9m high and made of bronze. 

Pretoria - A figure of former prime minister James Barry Hertzog was moved to a new spot and replaced with a giant bronze-plated Nelson Mandela statue at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Monday.

The removal of Hertzog’s statue was done after thorough consultations, President Jacob Zuma said at the annual Reconciliation Day celebrations in Pretoria.

“Compatriots, the site of the statue of our founding president had previously housed the statue of former prime minister James Barry Hertzog, who led the white government from 1924-1939,” said Zuma.

“Following an exhaustive consultation process, and in the spirit of reconciliation that our country has become renowned for, the representatives of Hertzog agreed that his statue be relocated to another spot in the Union Buildings in order to make way for Madiba's statue.”

He expressed gratitude to the Hertzog family “for their understanding and co-operation”.

The towering Madiba statue depicts a smiling Mandela standing 9m high, looking out over and ready to embrace the city of Pretoria with outstretched arms.

The unveiling by Zuma comes a day after the former president was buried in Qunu.

"We are happy that we are here. You will notice that in all the statues that have been made of Madiba, he is raising his fist and at times stretching it. That derives from the slogan of the ANC," Zuma said.

"This one is different from many. He is stretching out his hands. He is embracing the whole nation. You shouldn't say this is not Madiba because we know him with his one [raised] hand."

The R8m statue was created by South African sculptors Andre Prinsloo and Ruhan Janse van Vuuren. It was close to the Union Buildings' lawns, overlooking Arcadia.

A constant reminder

Zuma said the Mandela statue was a constant reminder for the nation to maintain Madiba’s values of unity, reconciliation, compassion and ubuntu.

“The statue will forever remind us of Madiba's towering vision and stature.

"It will remind us of his commitment, his leadership and his dedication to the struggle against apartheid. It will forever remind us of his commitment to an improved quality of life for all,” he said.

Zuma said it also reminded South Africans about how far they had come in a few years.

“The glaring reality is that before 1994, there would have been no statue of Madiba at the Union Buildings.

"Thus, when we look at this statue of Madiba, and recall his selfless sacrifice, let us remember that freedom in our country did not come free.”

The Day of Reconciliation also marked the centenary of the Union Buildings.

Zuma announced that the seat of government had been added to the list of national heritage sites.

"As we celebrate 100 years of the Union Buildings today, we do so satisfied and happy that this seat of government is now not only rich in terms of its aesthetic beauty only," he said.

"It is also rich in moral value and symbolism as well. Given its growing national importance, we have decided to declare the Union Buildings a national heritage site. It had all along been a provincial heritage site."

Mandela died at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, aged 95, on 5 December.

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Go well Mabida - Mandela funeral quotes

Qunu - Leaders and family members on Sunday praised former president Nelson Mandela as a man who united and freed his nation by fighting to end racist rule and then embracing forgiveness and reconciliation.

This is a selection of quotes from the funeral service of Mandela in Qunu:

President Jacob Zuma

"It is the end of an extraordinary journey that began 95 years ago. It is the end of 95 glorious years, of a freedom fighter, a dedicated and humble servant of the people of South Africa. Fountain of wisdom, a pillar of strength, and a beacon of hope for all those fighting for a just and equitable world order... Your long walk to freedom has ended in a physical sense... Our own journey continues... We wish today to express two simple words: Thank you. Thank you for being everything we wanted and needed in a leader during a difficult period in our lives."

Ahmed Kathrada

"Your abundant reserves of love, simplicity, honesty, service, humility, care, courage, foresight, patience, tolerance, equality, justice continually serve as a source of enormous strength to many millions of people in South Africa and the world... Today mingled with our grief is the enormous pride that one of our own has during his lifetime and now in your death united the people of South Africa and the entire world on a scale never before experienced in history... My life is in a void, and I don't know who to turn to."

Granddaughter Nandi Mandela

"Go well Madiba. Go well to the land of our ancestors, you have ran your race... We will carry lessons you taught us throughout our lives... As South Africans we must stop pointing fingers, but must rather lead by example, as you did and do something positive for South Africa."

Grandson Ndaba Mandela

"It is through Mandela that the world cast its eyes on South Africa and took notice of the severe and organised repression of the black South Africans. Yet it was also through Mandela that the world would learn the spirit of endurance, the triumph of forgiveness and the beauty of reconciliation."

Bantu Holomisa

"The Madiba song may have ended, but its melody lingers on."

Zolani Mkiva, Mandela’s former praise singer

"There is no tomorrow without a yesterday. There is no tonight without a yesternight. The bones of our ancestors are vibrating. The waves of African oceans are reverberating."

Cyril Ramaphosa

"As we celebrate Madiba's life, we also remember important concepts that Madiba taught us: Tolerance and forgiveness."

Bishop Don Dabula

“[He] gave his life for the sake of justice and freedom, who lived the world healing practices of forgiveness and inclusivity, compassion and integrity... We praise and thank you, oh God, for that Nelson Mandela, for his faithfulness to your call, his example of justice, peace and reconciliation and his courage to endure suffering, rejection and persecution for the sake of others."

Bye Tata "It is now in our hands"

This is it...

Father of a Nation is laid to rest

Rest In Peace - "Tata Nelson Rolihlahla 'Madiba' Mandela"

"It is now in our hands"

Mandela funeral brings all together

AFP

Qunu - Former president Nelson Mandela's state funeral in Qunu in the Eastern Cape drew together family and foreign leaders, royals and rural villagers on Sunday as South Africa parted with the man who united it in democracy two decades ago and in grief in the past 10 days.

Mandela's coffin was driven through the hills of his ancestral village on a gun carriage, a hallmark of state funerals, to a marquee filled with lilies and candles on his family's farm.

Mourners rose and sang the national anthem after the coffin was carried into the tent and placed on cow hides.

President Jacob Zuma sat behind the coffin, flanked by Mandela's widow Graca Machel and his ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

Announcing the programme for the funeral, African National Congress chairwoman Baleka Mbete told 4500 mourners Mandela's death had seen "an unprecedented river of tears and emotion".

"No effort has been spared to ensure that much of what Tata was, what he associated himself with, what he loved, and what he would have liked to see this morning," she said.

Methodist minister Vuyani Nyobole led mourners in Mandela's mother's favourite hymn before a song by a children's choir.

ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed local and foreign guests and said all of them and countless others cherished memories of their personal encounters with Mandela.

“My life is in a void”

"Each one of us, indeed millions of people around the world, have each had their Madiba moment... today, the person who lies here is South Africa's greatest son," Ramaphosa said.

"Madiba is going home and his ideas will continue to inspire us."

The first eulogy came from Mandela's close friend and fellow Robben Island prisoner Ahmed Kathrada, who said he was bereft because he had lost a brother.

"My life is in a void and I do not know who to turn to.

"He was my elder brother," Kathrada said, adding that Mandela had shown love and tolerance in abundance and the outpouring of grief over his death had shown how connected South Africans felt to him.

"Today, mingled with our grief is the enormous pride that one of us has during his lifetime and now in your death united the people of South Africa and the entire world on a scale never seen in history."

Mandela was to be buried beside his parents and his son in the family graveyard at noon - in keeping with Xhosa custom that dictates that the dead are laid to rest when the sun is at it highest.

Foreign dignitaries included Britain's Prince Charles, Monaco's Prince Albert and Zambia's first post-colonial president Kenneth Kaunda.

Family grudges 

Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu attended in a last-minute change of heart after saying on Saturday he had cancelled plans to go to Qunu after finding he had not been invited.

Faced with the wrath of one of Mandela's close friends and allies, the ANC dismissed the imbroglio as a misunderstanding and insisted that he was welcome.

It had caused speculation that Tutu was sidelined because of his caustic criticism of the current government.

But all indications were that grudges had been firmly set aside for Mandela's funeral, as senior ANC members who have fallen foul of Zuma attended - among them former Cabinet minister Tokyo Sexwale.

"It is quite a thing to see them," commented political analyst Justice Malala, as Sexwale chatted with ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu.

Malala said the ruling party appeared to have put much thought into "what is proper and what is proper for Nelson Mandela" in planning the country's final farewell to its first black president.

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Mandela to be buried before noon

Qunu - Former president Nelson Mandela must be buried before noon, in accordance with traditional customs, ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa said at his state funeral in Qunu on Sunday.

"Behind me are 95 candles lit early this morning. They represent the years of his life... and more especially the contribution he made to our country."

Ramaphosa said it was imperative that the service to be over in time.

"... In terms of the traditions of this part of the country, the person is meant to be laid to rest when the sun is at its highest," he said.

The funeral service held in the marquee would therefore need to finish at 10.30am at the latest.

In the 10 days since Mandela died, "many of us have been engaged with memory of Madiba, what he has meant to us, what he meant to the world", said Ramaphosa.

This was a time of love, celebration and mourning.

Africa’s greatest son

He quoted President Jacob Zuma as describing Mandela as "Africa's greatest son".

Ramaphosa acknowledged those present at the funeral, including Mandela's widow Graca Machel and his ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and Mandela's relatives.

Others he acknowledged included former president Thabo Mbeki, deputy president Kgalema Motlanthe, Cabinet ministers, members of the African National Congress national executive, and traditional and religious leaders.

Struggle veterans, judicial dignitaries, trade union leadership and leaders of opposition parties were also greeted, as were Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Charles Prince of Wales and Prince Albert of Monaco.

Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu arrived just in time, after saying on Saturday that he would no longer attend because he was not invited. However, the government replied by saying he was welcome, and he then made a last-minute decision to go.

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Fifa on black market WC tickets alert

Fifa on black market WC tickets alert

Around 130 companies are being investigated for selling World Cup tickets on the black market with football's governing body Fifa claiming that some are being offered with a staggering 300 percent mark-up.

Match Services AG, which is the Fifa-sanctioned commercial outlet, confirmed reports in the Brazilian media that some 130 companies and operators are under investigation for offering unauthorised deals.

Some of these already face judicial action in their own countries.

Match Services AG indicated to AFP it was aware of companies offering packages on the black market at vastly marked up prices.

The Estado de Sao Paulo daily quoted their legal counsel Imran Patel as saying "we are seeing a huge black market with prices of up to 300 percent above face value".

Tickets for next year's World Cup are available solely via the Fifa website.

Match Services, which is offering VIP packages, many to companies, had indicated prior to last week's World Cup draw that it believed around 100 firms were seeking to scalp punters.

However, they claim they have since uncovered evidence of another 30 cases.

According to Estado de Sao Paulo, authorities in Costa Rica have already fined four agencies in the country for claiming they could offer packages to fans wanting to follow the Central American team at the event.

A dozen Mexican operators have been issued with warnings to stop while consumer protection authorities have launched legal action against six.

Other unauthorized operators are at work in several other countries, including Australia and China, Estado reported.

Patel said Fifa is aware which firms are involved and is ready to take legal action in Brazil where necessary.

Nelson Mandela's final farewell

Following a week of memorials and three days of lying in state at the Union Buildings, Nelson Mandela is finally being buried in his childhood village of Qunu in the Eastern Cape. 

Mandela died last Thursday at 20:50 at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg. 

A massive memorial service was held at FNB Stadium in Soweto. The service was attended by 91 heads of state and included speeches by Cuban President Raul Castro, our own President Jacob Zuma and US President Barack Obama.

Other services were also held in other cities around the country during the week. 

Following three days of lying in state at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, during which about 100 000 people viewed Madiba's body, Mandela was flown to Mthatha. From there, a cortege took him to Qunu. 

Thousands of people are expected to attend the funeral, including talk show queen Oprah Winfrey, billionaire Richard Branson.

This cover of the Beijing Times attests to Nelson Mandela's global appeal.

Johannesburg - Guests stood, sang and danced shortly before the state funeral of former president Nelson Mandela at a specially constructed dome in Qunu, in the Eastern Cape, on Sunday.

ANC Women's League members wearing their customary green dresses were the first to begin singing. Other people then began blowing whistles before standing up and dancing.

African National Congress stalwart Ahmed Kathrada, who was imprisoned with Mandela, former human settlements minister Tokyo Sexwale, and ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa were present, as was former president Thabo Mbeki and a host of Cabinet ministers.

Also attending were Zimbabwe's Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai and SA Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus.

US civil rights activist Jesse Jackson and US ambassador Patrick Gaspard took their seats, alongside businessman Patrice Motsepe.

Inside the dome, purple chairs were placed in front of a stage lined with two rows of candles and a portrait of Mandela.

Black seats were designated for international delegates and special guests.

About 5000 people were expected to attend the funeral in Mandela's home village, where he spent much of his childhood.

After the state funeral, the AbaThembu will receive the body to bury it according to royal protocol.

Mandela will be buried next to his relatives at the family gravesite in a private and more intimate ceremony.

ntlele.blogspot.com

SA's gets ready for final chapter in Madiba's long walk

People will be able to watch the funeral at home on television or on big screens at stadiums across the country.

Johannesburg - A state funeral will be held for former president Nelson Mandela in Qunu in the Eastern Cape on Sunday.

About 5 000 people are expected to attend the funeral in Mandela's home village, to be attended by a number of national and international dignitaries.

People will be able to watch the funeral at home on television or on big screens at stadiums across the country.

The Gauteng government said Soweto residents would gather at the Orlando Stadium to watch the funeral.

"Madiba spent a great deal of his life as a worker, as a student and as an African National Congress leader living in Soweto," said premier Nomvula Mokonyane.

Mandela lived in Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, in Soweto for 16 years.

"After his release from prison in 1990, Madiba returned to the house, despite suggestions from government officials that he find a safer home," said Mokonyane.

People will also be able to watch the funeral at Ellis Park and Dobsonville stadium.

Capetonians will be able to watch the funeral on a big screen at the Grand Parade in town.

There would also be a viewing at Parliament.

After the state funeral had concluded on Sunday, the AbaThembu will receive the body to bury it according to royal protocol.

Mandela will be buried next to his relatives at the family grave site.

ntlele.blogspot.com

Guests arrive at Mandela homestead

Qunu - A number of guests arrived at a specially-constructed dome at the homestead of former President Nelson Mandela, ahead of his state funeral in Qunu in the Eastern Cape on Sunday.

Minister in the Presidency Collins Chabane greeted guests as they arrived, while navy, military and airforce officials stood by the door; along with security officials.

About 5000 people are expected to attend the funeral in Mandela's home village, to be attended by a number of national and international dignitaries.

People will be able to watch the funeral at home on television or on big screens at stadiums across the country.

After the state funeral had concluded on Sunday, the AbaThembu will receive the body to bury it according to royal protocol.

Mandela will be buried next to his relatives at the family grave site in a more intimate ceremony.

ntlele.blogspot.com

Govt calls for privacy over burial

Qunu - The government on Saturday called for privacy and respect during the burial of former president Nelson Mandela.

"The privacy and comfort of the Mandela family is of utmost importance at this point in the mourning stage," Minister in the Presidency Collins Chabane told reporters.

He said Sunday's burial ceremony would be observed in accordance with the rituals and customs of the AbaThembu people, which dictates that such burial take place in privacy.

He said no vehicles would be allowed into the property.

The service would be attended by 4 500 people and only 450 would witness the rituals.

"We appeal for respect for former Madiba's final resting place and for all to be sensitive to this culturally significant site of the AbaThembu clan."

The minister announced that government would be working throughout the night to ensure smooth operation for the burial.

Guests were expected to start arriving in East London before midnight and then be ferried to Qunu.

Chabane said: "All guests should be seated by 07:00 and the doors will close at 07:30.  No one will be allowed in after that," he said.

The minister also announced that at least 600 villagers would be attending the funeral.

Mourners left in tears after seeing Mandela

A woman with the South African flag draped over her shoulders broke down into tears after seeing former president Nelson Mandela's body at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Thursday.

"It's a blessing for me," Frida Manamela said, trying to hold back her tears.

"It reminds me of the old days. I think I'm okay now after seeing his face. The old man is now at peace," she said, before bursting into tears again.

Mandela's body was lying in state in the amphitheatre, the site where he was inaugurated as the country's first democratically-elected president in 1994.

Motheo Modiba, a 20-year-old university student, said she felt honoured to see Mandela.

"Oh my gosh, it was awesome yet so scary," she said.

"I feel that it was a blessing. He... still looked handsome."

Rita Fatyela, an ANC Women's League member from Villiersdorp in the Western Cape said she was happy she could see Mandela.

"I feel very happy because I could see my lord; Mandela is my lord.

"He looked beautiful. Papa is not dead, he is sleeping," Fatyela said.

Prince Mashiane, from Soshanguve, sat on a bench in front of the Union Buildings looking out over Pretoria. He had not gone to see the body yet.

"We lost a father. We lost such a great man," he said staring out into the distance.

Hundreds of people continued to queue at the Union Buildings waiting for their chance to bid Mandela farewell.

Vanessa Narainsamy wore a green, yellow and black sari in honour of Mandela and the ANC.

"As you can see, I'm clad in the ANC colours; I think he [Mandela] would have appreciated that."

She said seeing the body had given her closure.

"It was such a good experience, more of a relief... He always meant so much to me."

Narainsamy said it was always her desire to meet the struggle icon, which she got to do on Thursday.

"You have these mixed emotions, you just want to cry out. He stole everyone's heart."

‘We lost a great icon’

Jared Reddy, 16, who flew up from Durban, said it was an experience for him to see Mandela.

"It was a great experience, especially being someone who was born in the new South Africa.

"We lost a great icon who will be sorely missed," said Reddy.

Mandela will again be transported from One Military Hospital to the Union Buildings on Friday, where his body will lie in state for a third and last day.

Members of the public are invited to line the route and form a public guard of honour while his body is being transported.

People can view the body from 08:00 to 17:30.

Mandela died at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, last Thursday, at the age of 95.

The official memorial service was held at the FNB Stadium, in Soweto, on Tuesday, and was attended by about 100 current and former heads of state and government.

He will be buried in Qunu in the Eastern Cape on Sunday. 

Qunu on security lockdown

SANDF troops in Qunu. 

Qunu - SANDF troops and mounted police patrolled Qunu on Thursday, with the village under virtual security lockdown ahead of Nelson Mandela's burial there at the weekend.

Thousands of high profile mourners, including numerous heads of state are expected to descend on the remote location in the Eastern Cape where Mandela will finally be laid to rest on Sunday.

Since the beginning of the week, workers have been busy preparing the site outside the small backwater town of Mthatha.

Heavy rain since Tuesday has hampered but not stopped construction of a large, white dome-shaped marquee, where the funeral service will be held.

According to government officials, the venue will accommodate some 5 000 people.

Access into the compound is currently restricted to family members and relatives, some of whom - including Mandela's eldest daughter Makaziwe - started arriving on Wednesday evening under police escort.

Mthatha Airport manager Anderson Maduneni said the facility, which normally handles two small commercial aircrafts a day, will have to cope with 100 aircraft over the weekend bringing world figures in and out.

The airport has been shut down for commercial flights since the beginning of the week.

"The army has taken over the airport... it will only receive aircraft transporting dignitaries. It's one of the measures that have been put in place to ensure safety," said Maduneni.

Police are stationed along the length of the 35km road from the airport to Qunu, often stopping and searching vehicles.

The section nearest the Mandela homestead has been cordoned off since last week. 

Raúl Castro Presidente de Cuba - Raul Castro President of Cuba

Cuba, que de los niños tienen sangre africana nunca olvidaré las palabras de Mandela diciendo Cuba tiene lugar especial en los corazones de los sudafricanos.

Cuba who's children have African blood shall never forget the words spoken by Mandela saying Cuba have special place in the hearts of South Africans. 

रणब Mukheerjee भारत के राष्ट्रपति ने कहा. Pranab Mukheerjee the President of India said:

प्रणब Mukheerjee भारत के राष्ट्रपति ने कहा. 

Pranab Mukheerjee the President of India said: 

नेल्सन मंडेला गरिमा और गर्व के साथ अपने संघर्ष को जारी रखा.

Nelson Mandela continued his struggle with dignity and pride. 

Li Yuanchao Vice-President of China @Mandela Memorial Service

曼德拉是在中國和南非關係的奠基人。說中國的李源潮副總裁

曼德拉是在中国和南非关系的奠基人。说中国的李源潮副总裁

Obama to give speech at Mandela memorial

Obama to give speech at Mandela memorial

ntlele.blogspot.com

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama board Air Force One to travel to South Africa for a memorial service in honour of Nelson Mandela. 

Air Force One - US President Barack Obama is to give a speech at Tuesday's memorial service for Nelson Mandela, an official travelling with Obama said.

Obama, his wife Michelle, former president George Bush and his wife Laura, and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton left Washington for South Africa aboard Air Force One early on Monday.

"We do expect President Obama to speak as part of the programme" at the FNB stadium in Soweto, deputy US national security advisor Ben Rhodes told reporters travelling with the president.

Rhodes added that Obama had worked on his speech over the weekend.

About 80 000 people are expected to gather at the stadium on Tuesday for an emotional tribute to Mandela, who died last week at age 95.

Obama also "would certainly like to have the opportunity... to pay his respects" to Mandela's widow Graça Machel and the rest of his family, Rhodes said.

The US president does not expect to have any bilateral meetings with other world leaders while in South Africa, he added.

Rhodes said the Obamas, the Bushes and Clinton had been talking in Air Force One's conference room during the flight, calling it a "unique experience”.

Former US presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter were making their own way to South Africa for Tuesday's memorial.

In Washington on Monday, US Vice President Joe Biden paid his respects to Mandela at the South African embassy.

"Mandela's head and heart lifted a nation to freedom. We will continue to keep his spirit alive and strive to live by his example," Biden wrote in the book of condolences.

ntlele.blogspot.com

Qunu gearing up for funeral

Qunu gearing up for funeral

ntlele.blogspot.com

A large structure which will be used for commemorative ceremonies is built on the land of late former president Nelson Mandela's home in Qunu. 

Qunu - There were few casual visitors outside former president Nelson Mandela's Eastern Cape home in Qunu on Monday, but deliveries and preparations ahead of his funeral were well underway.

A couple, who did not want to be named, drove past the gate and asked the media what was happening in the area.

"We are on our way on holiday and saw the steel structure from the N2, and saw all the cars and decided to stop," the man said.

"Is Mandela's house nearby?"

They left soon after a journalist pointed out the house to them.

A large yellow crane was lifting steel rods and erecting a structure inside the property. Nearby, a large white marquee had been erected.

The structure, a few metres high and wide, could be seen from the N2, which is the main road between Qunu and Mthatha.

Police have asked journalists to stay on the other side of the N2, which passes the home.

‘Strict orders’

Several heavy goods trucks and other service providers entered the gravel road, which has been blocked off to ordinary traffic.

Shortly after 11:30, a truck carrying air conditioning units arrived.

Cement trucks arrived all morning.

The number of armoured military vehicles increased through the morning until there were nine parked on the grass in front of the house.

Others already parked around the perimeter remained in place.

Military officers chatted in groups close to the vehicles.

A funeral services vehicle entered the main gate with military health service vehicles.

Events infrastructure companies also entered using the side road.

Children played in a tunnel running under the N2.

Three dogs occasionally ran to the gate before returning down the side road where the growing media contingent parked.

The media has been prevented from entering the Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu without the necessary accreditation. Security guards at the gate turned away local and international media, saying they had "strict orders" to do so.

Accreditation would officially open on Tuesday morning.

A tent had been erected on the grass near the museum and a truck with communications facilities entered the yard. The Qunu media centre would be set up there.

Since Mandela's death in Johannesburg on Thursday night, mourners have left flowers at the base of the property's wall.

Police on horseback are patrolling Qunu.

ntlele.blogspot.com

'Whole world coming to SA'

'Whole world coming to SA'

More than 70 heads of state and government are expected in South Africa this week to attend funeral events for former president Nelson Mandela, with most due to attend a huge memorial service in Johannesburg on Tuesday, officials said.

"The whole world is coming to South Africa," foreign ministry spokesperson Clayson Monyela said.

After what has been billed as one of the largest gatherings of global leaders in recent history, only a handful of dignitaries would go to Sunday's state burial in Mandela's ancestral home of Qunu in the Eastern Cape, he added.

"We're trying to keep that to the family," Monyela told Talk Radio 702.

Free trains to transport mourners

Free trains to transport mourners

At least 41 trains will be transporting mourners to the memorial service of former president Nelson Mandela, Metrorail said on Sunday night.

The trains, which have the capacity to transport between 60 000 and 80 000 people from all over Gauteng, will be free of charge, it said in a statement.

"Metrorail will provide a safe, reliable, efficient and hassle-free transport service to thousands of mourners expected to attend the official memorial service to reflect on Madiba's life and his contribution to the world.

"Metrorail invites Gauteng residents to make use of the available trains to share in the sombre... occasion of the loss of the African jewel and rejoice in commemorating the legacy and life of our first democratically elected transformational leader."

Mandela died at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, on Thursday night at the age of 95.

The memorial service will be held at the FNB stadium on Tuesday. The train service will run from 05:00.

Metrorail said it would also transport passengers to the overflow venues - Ellis Park Stadium, Orlando Stadium and the Dobsonville Stadium.

Autopax, a subsidiary of the Passenger Rail Agency of SA, has also made 300 buses available to transport dignitaries to the FNB stadium.

Friends, colleagues, comrades and family of Nelson Mandela are invited to share their memories and tributes, and to light a candle for him, on his profile atRemembered.co.za. 

Joburg road closures for Madiba memorial

Joburg road closures for Madiba memorial

The City of Johannesburg has released details of bus and rail services available for those wanting to attend Tuesday's national memorial service for Nelson Mandela. 

The event is set to start at 11:00 in the FNB Stadium in Soweto. 

On getting there, the city said those wishing to attend could: 

-- travel by Metrorail from all major stations in Gauteng. Trains would leave on an hourly basis; 

-- travel by Gautrain to Park Station, and transfer to Metrorail to FNB Stadium; 

-- walk from the surrounding areas to the stadium; or, 

-- use the special Rea Vaya BRT service. 

The special Rea Vaya BRT service would operate: 

-- from Ellis Park East Rea Vaya Station via Beyers Naude Square Westbound Rea Vaya Station, and Westgate Rea Vaya Station to FNB/Stadium Soccer City Rea Vaya Station; and 

-- from UJ Sophiatown Rea Vaya Station via Soweto Highway to Nasrec North Rea Vaya Station. 

Mourners could also drive to a park-and-ride site and travel by Rea Vaya BRT or bus to the stadium. Park and ride sites include: 

-- Standard Bank, entrance at 1 Simmonds Street, Johannesburg CBD; 

-- Open parking next to Rea Vaya Westgate Station, entrance in Anderson Street, Joburg CBD; 

-- University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Campus; 

-- Gold Reef City (Casino), entrance in Northern Parkway, Ormonde; and, 

-- Apartheid Museum, entrance in Northern Parkway, Ormonde. 

The city urged those planning to use these services to watch the press for updates. 

On getting to Ellis Park Stadium, it said this could be done by: 

-- travelling by Metrorail from Park Station to Ellis Park; 

-- walking from the nearby areas of Hillbrow, Yeoville, Bertrams and Troyeville; or, 

-- walking from the University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, entrance in Beit Street, Doornfontein. 

The public could also use the special Rea Vaya BRT service which would operate from: 

-- Westgate Rea Vaya Station via Beyers Naude Square and, 

-- Braamfontein (Joburg Theatre and Conhill Rea Vaya Stations) to Ellis Park North Rea Vaya Station. 

Alternatively, they could drive to a park-and-ride site and travel by Rea Vaya BRT or bus to the stadium. 

Park and Ride sites include: 

-- Constitution Hill, entrance in Joubert Street, Braamfontein; 

-- Metro Centre, entrance in Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein; 

-- Thuso House, entrance in Stiemens Street, Braamfontein; 

-- Wits University, West Campus; 

-- Bez Valley Park, entrance in Marcia Street, Observatory; and, 

-- Absa Towers, entrance in Main Street, Joburg CBD. 

Those wanting to go to Orlando Stadium could: 

-- travel by Metrorail from Vereeniging and Naledi Stations; 

-- walk from the nearby areas of Mlamlankunzi, Orlando West, and Orlando East; 

-- drive to the Park and Ride at either Northgate or Westbank, Enterprise Rd (off Beyer's Naude Drive), Fairland and catch a bus to Orlando Stadium; or, 

-- Catch a marked Putco bus from Protea Glen, Merafe, Molopo, Bara/Diepkloof, Chiawelo, Mapetla, Dube, or Meadowlands. 

Options for getting to Dobsonville Stadium include: 

-- walking from the nearby areas of Tshepisong, Bramfischerville and Mfolo; 

-- catching a marked Putco bus from Emdeni, Naledi, Dobsonville, Orange Farm, Silvertown, or Bramfischerville. 

Details and updates are available atwww.joburg.org.za.

ntlele.blogspot.com 

Babies baptised at Mandela service

The sound of babies wailing echoed through the Bryanston Methodist Church in Johannesburg on Sunday as baptisms were conducted during a memorial service for struggle icon Nelson Mandela on Sunday.

Dressed in their finest, Dylan, Channing, Mangeliso, and Ava Victoria were among some of South Africa's youngest citizens baptised.

Some parents wiped away proud tears and others beamed as their children received prayers.

One mother bounced her baby, wearing a flouncy dress and elaborate headband, on her hip.

During songs played by the church band, people raised their hands, closed their eyes, shook their heads or beat their hearts.

President Jacob Zuma and Mandela's ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela were at the service, as were grandson Mandla Mandela, Arts and Culture Minister Paul Mashatile and TV personality Dali Tambo.

Presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj, dressed in a pink shirt, orange tie and grey jacket, lowered his head during prayer.

Meanwhile in Cape Town, mayor Patricia de Lille shared her personal connection with Mandela in a speech delivered at a special council meeting on Sunday. He would phone her every year on her birthday, she said, according to a copy of her speech.

"He flattered me by calling me his favourite opposition politician."

She said the city had a special relationship with Mandela.

"To our shame, he was imprisoned here for most of his 27-year incarceration. But it was also from here that he gave his first address after his release and where he presided over a new constitutional order."

Back in Johannesburg, former president Thabo Mbeki is expected to attend a prayer service at the Oxford Shul.

Mandela died aged 95 at his Houghton, Johannesburg, home on Thursday. He would be buried in Qunu next Sunday.