Mandela Centre of Memory opens
Jacob Zuma says South Africans and the rest of the world have a lot to learn from Madiba’s life.
JOHANNESBURG - President Jacob Zuma says it is former president Nelson Mandela's values of hard work, honesty and integrity that continue to guide the country as it builds the new South African nation.
On Monday night Zuma opened the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory facility in Houghton for the public to view certain items of the former statesman, including books, speeches and photos.
Zuma says this permanent exhibition of the former statesman's belongings should spark dialogue about Madiba's inspiring life and values.
He said South Africans and the rest of the world have a lot to learn from Madiba's life.
"A life of selfless dedication to freedom, democracy, equality and dignity for all."
MANDLA GRATEFUL
At the same time, Madiba's grandson Mandla says it is a great honour for him and his family that his grandfather's legacy is being preserved for future generations at the Centre.
Local and international delegates, including Madiba's wife Graca Machel, attended the opening of the facility to the public.
Several valuables of the former statesman are now being displayed for the public to view including personal toiletries from his office bathroom, and his letters and speeches.
Mandla says he wants the public to visit the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory and reflect on his grandfather's legacy and commitment.
He thanked the ANC, but more specifically Zuma, for his leadership to ensure Mandela's work is preserved for future generations.
"The most important thing for us as a family is to be in the same space as Madiba, to lead as a nation."
The centre is now open to the public but is already fully booked until the end of the year.
MADIBA'S CONDITION
Meanwhile, the Presidency said Madiba's condition remained critical but stable.
This weekend Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was quoted as saying Madiba had lost his voice.
He now uses facial expressions to communicate with his family, but she says he is not in a critical condition.
