Nelson Mandela burial date announced

Former president Nelson Mandela will be laid to rest on 15 December in Qunu in the Eastern Cape.

The struggle icon passed away last night after suffering from a recurring lung infection. President Jacob Zuma said 8 December would be a national day of prayer and all South Africans are expected to reflect on the life of the Nobel Laureate, who sacrificed his life for the freedom of his people.

Zuma said people must hold prayer services at churches and in the comfort of their own homes.

"As a grandfather, we have all known him as a kind-hearted, generous and wise person who was always prepared to offer us advice on how to be good members of our communities."

He thanked the nation for their overwhelming support and outpouring of love since the news of Mandela’s passing. He said that the support was a precedent, which demonstrated the leader that Madiba was.

The national prayer will be followed by an official memorial service, which will be held on Tuesday 10 December at the FNB Stadium in Nasrec, near Soweto.

On 11 and 13 December the remains of Mandela will lie in state at the Union Buildings, and at the same time memorial services will be held in all provinces around the country.

Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela, said the family was grateful to South Africans for their support since the passing of his grandfather.

"He is an embodiment of strength, struggle and survival, principles that are cherished by humanity."

“The messages we have received since last night have heartened and overwhelmed us,” said Mandla Mandela in a statement, the first public comment from the former president’s family since his death. He added that his family was sincerely grateful for the national and international support that his family received during the time Madiba was ill.

He said he thanked God that his grandfather loved and guided his family.

“He is an embodiment of strength, struggle and survival, principles that are cherished by humanity.”

He added: “As a grandfather, we have all known him as a kind-hearted, generous and wise person who was always prepared to offer us advice on how to be good members of our communities.”