Death of Nelson Mandela

Death and state funeral
of Nelson Mandela

Candlelight memorial outside Mandela's home.
Date	5–15 December 2013
Location	Johannesburg, Gauteng (Memorial service) Pretoria, Gauteng (Public viewing) Qunu, Eastern Cape (State funeral and burial)
Website	www.mandela.gov.za

On 5 December 2013, Nelson Mandela, the first President of South Africa to be elected in a fully representative democratic election, as well as the country's first black head of state, died at the age of 95 after suffering from a prolonged respiratory infection. He died at around 20:50 local time (UTC+2) at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, South Africa, surrounded by his family. His death was announced by President Jacob Zuma. Reactions from governments, international organizations, and notable individuals, gained worldwide media coverage.

South Africa observed a national mourning period of 10 days. During this time numerous memorial services were conducted across the country. The official memorial service was held at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, on 10 December where the 95 000 sitter stadium was two thirds full because of the cold, rain and transport challenges. His body lay in state at the Union Buildings in Pretoria from 11 to 13 December 2013. A state funeral was held on 15 December 2013 in Qunu in the Eastern Cape province, where his body was buried.

President Jacob Zuma announced Mandela's death on national television on 6 December 2013 at 23:45 local time (UTC+2).

The South African government announced a period of 10 days of national mourning ending with the state funeral on 15 December 2013. Zuma ordered that all flags on government buildings be flown at half-mast for the duration of this period.