South African High Commission

“His passing is a great loss, not only to his family but to the music industry, the country and the international stage at large. His contribution to the struggle for liberation will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace,” said the GCIS in a statement on Wednesday.

The brass is being polished and the stage is being set for guests and Parliamentarians, who will this evening get their marching orders from President Cyril Ramaphosa, as he delivers the 2020 State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The nomination of the former chief negotiator and World Trade Organisation diplomat was challenged by Nigeria, but he prevailed.

Many people across the globe today are remembering the day in which former President Nelson Mandela raised his fist in the air as he made his way out of the Victor Verster prison, in a move that would alter the history of South Africa.

“I stand before you immensely humbled by this great honour that has been bestowed on South Africa.”

Economic integration, women’s empowerment and good governance are the three main priorities for South Africa as it prepares to assume chairship of the African Union (AU) this year.