Mandela is gone, South Africa to thrive on

Mandela’s death comes after an extended stay in hospital as a result of a serious lung infection. Mandela’s health has been a concern for quite some time, and South African officials and family members have regularly made the nation aware of his critical condition. This was in an effort to prepare the nation for the imminent death of the struggle veteran; however, the announcement of Nelson Mandela’s passing still came as a shock to many in South Africa and across the world. His death will have a tremendous impact on the hearts and minds of many. There is no other South African figure in the more than 300 year history of the country that receives as much respect as #Madiba.

#Mandela was a world icon that was loved and idolised by many across the world. His legacy will endure as his life has touched South Africans of diverse backgrounds. Many in the country see him as a father figure and an ideal of what is best about South Africa.

Mandela’s Legacy

It is surreal to note that Nelson Mandela’s death comes almost 20 years since he was inaugurated as the country’s first democratically elected President. His ascension into power marked an important period in the history of this country, the culmination of centuries of struggle against colonial domination over African people across the continent. Mandela’s inauguration was not only a victory for South Africa but a victory for a group of peoples across Africa and the diaspora who had suffered years of racial oppression. It was also a victory for many people across the globe who had been involved in the international anti-apartheid movement, protesting in the capitals of the world. His election as president signified a new hope, a new era of unity in South Africa across not only racial lines, but also ethnic divisions which have devastated many other African countries. South Africa became the ‘Rainbow Nation’, and the ‘Miracle Nation’ which prevailed against all odds to towards a peaceful reconciliation. Mandela brought with him the notions of peace and forgiveness which have become synonymous with idea of South Africa.

His death is an opportunity for reflection on his legacy, his contributions to South Africa, Africa and the rest of the world. Mandela’s willingness to step away from power and hand over the reins to former Thabo Mbeki is one of his most noteworthy actions. In a continent where the cult of personality has often overwhelmed both state and party, Mandela was able to give up power at the height of his popularity. This was also symptomatic of a culture within the African National Congress (#ANC); Madiba was a leader who always promoted the philosophy of collective leadership. He regularly endorsed the idea that leadership could come from any place and from anyone.

Mandela will also be remembered for speaking up for what he believed, which at times may have strained relations with powerful friends and leaders. Mandela caused a diplomatic spat between South Africa and #Nigeria when he publicly criticised #Nigerian President Sani #Abacha for human rights abuses when the Nigeria leader allowed the execution of Ogoni activists, incluing Ken Saro-Wiwa. Mandela also spoke out against the aids denialism stance of the Thabo #Mbeki administration.

Can South Africa survive without him?

This has been a common question when it comes to Mandela’s death. In a country which had just avoided a civil war, the transition of power from the re-conciliatory Mandela to the barely known Thabo Mbeki caused a lot of anxiety for many including business, international investors and the local population. However, one of the most critical aspects of the South African democratic story is the nature of leadership during the apartheid struggle. While Mandela has risen above most figures in the history of the struggle, it has been continuously acknowledged that many contributed to the hard won freedom of this country.

Mandela played a significant role against apartheid; however the battle for freedom was not only fought by him. The baton of leadership within the ANC as well as the rest of the movement against apartheid has constantly shifted over the years. South Africa has had other icons such as Oliver #Tambo, Walter #Sisulu, Govan Mbeki, Robert #Sobukwe and Steve #Biko who also made great sacrifices for this country’s freedom. This has meant that the country has never relied on a single individual to define its future. South Africa has never been short of leadership to guide it and many more will come and try to reach the exemplary heights set by Mandela. The greatest legacy that Mandela will bequeath on this relatively young country is a goal to aspire to. Mandela will continue to be the inspiration for greatness in this country, and all South Africa can do is aim to reach and surpass the lofty ambitions Nelson Mandela has set.

Lala ngoxolo Tata Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

#nelsonmandela

Originally published on the africapractice website here: http://www.africapractice.com/blogposts/page/28/?id=4216