Song and dance for Mandela

Song and dance at the Union Buildings, in Pretoria, continued well into Friday night as young people commemorated the life of former president Nelson Mandela.

 

After 9pm, a group of men and women energetically chanted slogans, and sang and danced in a huge circle near the main entrance to the Union Buildings.

 

University student Thabo Makgopa said he could not afford to go to sleep at his flat when the whole world was in mourning.

 

"Even if I go to try and sleep, I cannot. The whole world has bowed down today, paying tribute to Madiba. I feel very proud to be South African," he said.

 

"Mandela did so much for this country and I have come with my friends to pay tribute. We have the energy, and if allowed we will be here for a long time."

 

Angeline Engelbrecht, of Centurion, had brought her five-year-old son Eric to sign the book of condolences.

 

"Mandela's death has created this huge void, which will be felt particularly by the young generation. I will want my son to be another Madiba," said Engelbrecht.

 

Bouquets of flowers were heaped on a large wall adjacent to the main entrance. 

 

Candles lit the area, glowing on the numerous cards left by well-wishers.

 

A message on one of read: "For all your love, we thank you Mandela. You touched lives".

 

Another read: "Dear Tata Madiba. I'm humbled by your deep love, humility, forgiveness and compassion. Love you, from Penelope".

 

Several police officers were deployed at the Union Buildings' two main entrances on Government Avenue, restricting the flow of traffic.

 

Earlier, unemployed father of four, Trevor Bika, said he had walked for more than 20 kilometres from Mamelodi East to convey his condolences.

 

"I felt a strong desire to come here, where Madiba used to have an office while he was president, to pay my homage to a great man," he said.

 

"The old man has left us a huge responsibility, which is to inculcate into our children the values of ubuntu. Africa and the world have lost a great son."

 

Former Belgian ambassador to South Africa, Jan Mutton, took a bunch of flowers with him to the Union Buildings.

 

"I had the privilege of working with former president Mandela during my diplomatic career. Working with him has made such an impact on me," said Mutton.

 

"He was a very generous and friendly person... We are here to remember an exceptional life. His influence will live on."  

 

-Sapa