The following was written by South Africa Charter Team member Lubabalo Satsha. 

A lawyer, freedom fighter, father of the nation, Xhosa royal chief, Tata Nelson Rohihlala Mandela hamba kahle mkhonto! There can never be enough words to describe the deep sadness and loss our country and the world has suffered.

Tata Madiba was a selfless leader of the people, humble and compassionate. He was a moral leader who fought against oppressive apartheid and stood to against racism. Tata Nelson Rohihlala Mandela lala ngoxolo Madiba you have played your role with assurance. There can never be enough titles which will be a measurement of your love for us. Your passing leaves us celebrating a life lived with purpose and mourning a loss of a great statesman.

A baobab tree has fallen; this is the end of an era of leaders who fought oppression until the end. It is fitting to also remember those who also gave their life to fight oppression like Walter Sisulu , Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada, Chris Hani, Steve Biko, Oliver Tambo and others.

Tata Madiba our father, our leader we will miss you forever. You loaned us your life so we can enjoy freedom and live in a united South Africa. You said at Rivonia trail “I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.” You said it is an ideal which “I hope to live for and to achieve, but if needs be, it is anideal for which I am prepared to die.” You made this a reality and never gave up even when jailed for 27 years. You came out of prison on Feb. 11, 1991, a renewed man who forgave all those who wronged our nation. This spirit of reconciliation and peace will live with us forever.

Father of the nation and world we say thank you to our creator for your life and we know you will continue to inspire generations. You closed your eyes for the last time on Dec. 5, 2013, so we can open our eyes. Hamba Kahle Mkonto we Sizwe, hamba kahle Madiba may you rest in peace.