South Africa and the world today mourn the passing of Mr. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) extend our heartfelt condolences to family and friends. Mandela was an exceptional man and his presence will be sorely missed.
Mandela will be remembered as a political visionary who remained concerned with the everyday issues of his fellow citizens. He led the transformation of South Africa into a free and democratic society that has since become the international standard in constitutional development. As an authoritative statesman Mandela influenced world events. It is with a mixture of pride and sadness that South Africa takes leave of a truly great man.
Madiba transcended race, class, ideology and creed in his personal actions, through his warmth, extraordinary lack of bitterness, capacity to forgive and to reconcile people, readiness to listen and ability to identify with others.
SACCI wishes to add its voice to calls from numerous quarters that South Africa should honor Mandela’s life by reflecting his legacy of nation building and companionship across all walks of life. We all have to learn from his example to make this world better for all.