“Mandela’s life was one of service, sacrifice, freedom…”

The sun set on Thursday, December 5, 2013 with the passing away of the legendary Nelson Mandela. It was a sun that shined through the dark clouds of Apartheid and showered humanity with a sense of oneness, peace and a common destination.

Mandela’s life was one of service, sacrifice, freedom, organizing the oppressed, preaching love, building peace, and teaching humanity that the world, to survive, must be built on social justice. From his trials to 27 years in prison and his post prison leadership of the world as a moral authority, he inspired generations to be committed to making the world a better place than they met it. He taught humanity to build all-inclusive societies and evolve human-centered policies.

In a world with a prevalent thirst for power, his decision to serve only one term as president of independent South Africa was a moral lesson to all. This enhanced his moral authority and emphasized the fact that one does not need to wield political power before being an agent of positive change. He was also one leader that understood the power of words, and committed to print, his noble ideas and legacy.

We are proud that Africa produced such a matchless leader who is an inspiration to humanity.

We congratulate the African National Congress (ANC) whose organizational structures and vision produced international fighters for humanity like Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Joe Slovo, Ruth First and J.B Marks, the trade unionist who inspired Mandela and set him on an irreversible course. We also thank Africa for giving the world Nelson Mandela.

Mandela with his feet firmly planted on the African soil, moved the world, he has shown us the way to follow, and it is left for humanity to emulate him and follow in his footsteps.

Owei Lakemfa,

OATUU Secretary General.