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Happy birthday Nelson Mandela – hero turns 94
Images of Mandela have become rare in recent years since he retired to Qunu. He was last seen in public at the closing ceremony of the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg.
Nelson Mandela retains an undeniable ability to inspire, and for many South Africans remains a symbol of the best of themselves, for leading the nation away from civil war and to a non-racial democracy.
Mandela’s “extraordinary life and steadfast commitment to the principles of democracy and reconciliation continues to be a beacon for people of all backgrounds who strive for dignity, justice, and freedom,” said President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle.
They described his personal story as “one of unbreakable will, unwavering integrity, and abiding humility.”
“By any measure,” the statement read, “Nelson Mandela has changed the arc of history, transforming his country, continent, and the world.”
Obama’s predecessor Clinton said he was honored to have been in office as Mandela became South Africa’s first black president in 1994.
“When I think about Mandela I always think about someone committed to the future,” he said after leaving Mandela’s home.
“We worked together as presidents and even after we left office we continued working together to improve education of the children worldwide in order for them to share the future,” he added.
