Ethiopian Prime Minister and current chairman of the African Union, Hailemariam Desalegn had led tributes to the late South African icon Nelson Mandela at the state funeral, held in his home village of Qunu, on Sunday December 15 2013.
Hailemariam described Mandela as an iconic figure who made exceptional contribution to humanity. He further pointed out that Africa is indebted to former president Nelson Mandela for the sacrifices he made to the continent. He said Mandela held a special place in Ethiopian and African hearts, and his life had been a “record of all the trials and tribulations” endured by Africa “at the hands of ruthless colonizers”. “Madiba’s life has been a record of trials and tribulations an entire continent has to endure. His life was a struggle against unparalleled odds… a life of perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges…”, Prime Minister Hailemariam stated.
Humanity is better because it had the good fortune of having Mandela he noted, which is regarded as a source of wisdom and as its torch bearer in times of utter darkness. “We should all count ourselves lucky to draw a lesson or two from the life of this towering figure”, he added.
More than 4,000 people, including Mandela’s family members, African leaders and several heads of state, attended the final farewell service in a specially erected marquee. The burial marked the end of a week of a 10-day official morning and a week memorial events for Mr. Mandela which have attracted thousands of South Africans and world leaders. (Ethiopia MFA)
