A giant statue of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president and freedom fighter was unveiled today in Pretoria, the country’s capital, a day after Mandela was buried.
The nine-metre (30ft) bronze statue has been erected at the Union Buildings, the government headquarters.
The statue, with Mr Mandela’s hands reaching outward, was intended to show that he had embraced the whole nation, President Jacob Zuma said.
The statue was unveiled on South Africa’s Day of Reconciliation, a public holiday in celebration of the end of racial conflict and segregation in South Africa.
“Former President Mandela is associated with the promotion of reconciliation which is why the day was chosen for the unveiling,” said the South African government.
“As your journey ends today, ours must continue in earnest… South Africa will continue to rise because we dare not fail you,” Zuma pledged yesterday while giving his address at Nelson Mandela’s funeral. He also promised to build on Nelson Mandela’s legacy.
ALSO SEE: Nelson Mandela’s Funeral In Photos.
