Nelson Mandela: South Africa Icon Dies South Africa's first black president, revered around the world as an icon of peace, freedom and reconciliation, dies aged 95.

Nelson Mandela: South Africa Icon Dies

South Africa's first black president, revered around the world as an icon of peace, freedom and reconciliation, dies aged 95.

2:40am UK, Friday 06 December 2013

Nelson Mandela, whose victory against apartheid united his native South Africa and changed the course of modern history, has died following a long illness.

The Nobel Peace laureate, who spent nearly three decades as a political prisoner before going on to lead his country, passed away at his Johannesburg home surrounded by his family.
South African President Jacob Zuma said "the nation has lost its greatest son", adding "he is now resting. He is now at peace".
:: Watch Sky News HD for all the latest news and reaction to Nelson Mandela's death

Mr Mandela, who was 95, will get a state funeral and national flags will be lowered to half mast, said Mr Zuma.
Mr Mandela had been receiving medical treatment for the last three years for a prolonged lung infection and for the last six months had been critically ill.
"Our people have lost a father," said Mr Zuma.
"Although we knew this day was going to come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss.
"His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, passion and humanity, earned him their love."
The anti-apartheid icon served as South Africa's first black president from 1994 to 1999 after spending 27 years in the notorious Robben Island prison.

Crowds outside Mr Mandela's home have been singing songs in his praise

Madiba - as he was affectionately known by many South Africans - was released in 1990 and went on to guide his country to democracy, bringing an end to white minority rule and securing black people the right to vote.
UK Prime Minister David Cameron, speaking outside Downing Street, said: "Tonight one of the brightest lights of our world has gone out.
"Nelson Mandela was not just a hero of our time, but a hero of all time.
"Through his dignity, through his triumph, (he) inspired millions."

Mr Mandela was released in 1990 after nearly three decades in prison

"He achieved more than can be expected of any man - and today he's gone home," said President Obama.
"We've lost one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth."
"He no longer belongs to us - he belongs to the ages."
Zindzi Mandela, Mr Mandela's daughter, was informed of his death while watching the premiere of a film about her father's life.
On her way in to the cinema - in London's Leicester Square - she had told reporters Mr Mandela was "fine".

SOURCE: BBC NEWS