Obama visits with the family of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela and President Barack Obama

Obama visits with the family of Nelson Mandela

By Your Black World

President Barack Obama’s trip to Africa was made complicated by reports of the health of former South African president Nelson Mandela.   At first, it was unclear whether the president was going to meet with Mandela, but the president chose to stop by to check on the leader and

The 94-year old Mandela has been in the hospital for several weeks with a lung infection.   The president met with Mandela’s family in private on Saturday and even referred to him as “Madiba,” his tribal name, during a public statement.

“I expressed my hope that Madiba draws peace and comfort from the time that he is spending with loved ones, and also expressed my heartfelt support for the entire family as they work through this difficult time,” Obama said. “I also reaffirmed the profound impact that his legacy has had in building a free South Africa, and in inspiring people around the world — including me.”

In addition to meeting Mandela, President Obama also met with his daughters and eight grandchildren.  The president had just stopped in Senegal before heading over to South Africa.            The president didn’t meet with Mandela directly, due to his condition.  But he did mention that Mandela is a “personal hero” of his.

“If and when he passes from this place, one thing I think we’ll all know is that his legacy is one that will linger on throughout the ages,” Obama said.