As South Africa comes to terms with the death of the father of their “Rainbow nation”, the world mourns along with them. US President Barack Obama has paid hommage to one of his heroes at a special address at the White House in Washington.

“For now let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson MANDELA lived, a man who took history in his hands and bent the arc of the moral universe toward justice.” – said Barack Obama

His journey from a prisoner to a president embodied the promise that human beings and countries can change for the better.

God bless his memory and keep him in peace.

At the UN, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also paid his respects.

“I’m profoundly saddened by the passing of Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela was a giant for justice and a down to earth human inspiration. Many around the world were greatly influenced by his selfless struggle for human dignity, equality and freedom. He touched our lives in deeply personal ways.”

Flags around the world are being lowered to half mast in order to honour the life of Nelson Mandela, a man who touched the world.