Paying tribute to Mandela

Leaders and family members have praised Nelson Mandela as a man and president who united his nation by embracing forgiveness and reconciliation.

This is a selection of quotes from the funeral service for the former South African president in Qunu:

* “It is the end of an extraordinary journey that began 95 years ago,” said South African president Jacob Zuma. “It is the end of 95 glorious years, of a freedom fighter, a dedicated and humble servant of the people of South Africa. Fountain of wisdom, a pillar of strength, and a beacon of hope for all those fighting for a just and equitable world order.

“Your long walk to freedom has ended in a physical sense,” said Zuma in reference to the title of Mandela’s autobiography. “Our own journey continues.”

* “Go well Madiba — go well to the land of our ancestors, you have run your race,” said Mr Mandela’s granddaughter Nandi Mandela, using his clan name. “We will carry lessons you taught us throughout our lives. As South Africans we must stop pointing fingers, but must rather lead by example, as you did.”

* “As we celebrate Madiba’s life, we also remember important concepts that Madiba taught us: Tolerance and forgiveness,” said Cyril Ramaphosa, deputy leader of the African National Congress.

* “Today especially we celebrate the living incarnation that was Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who gave his life for the sake of justice and freedom, who lived the world healing practices of forgiveness and inclusivity, compassion, and integrity,” said Bishop Don Dabula. “We praise and thank you, oh God, for that Nelson Mandela, for his faithfulness to your call, his example of justice, peace, and reconciliation and his courage to endure suffering, rejection, and persecution for the sake of others.”