My meeting with Madiba

TRANSKEI can be such an absolutely happy and friendly  place.

What is even more enthralling is the fact that this forgotten and underdeveloped landscape surprises you by giving a new landscape every few kilometres, from mountains shimmering green to dark forests.

As I arrived at the home of former president Nelson Mandela on the morning of December 6 2001, it was like a dream come true.

I was to help set up the Christmas party which took place at the home of Madiba every year.

Thousands of children would queue for hours for a special Christmas party with Madiba at his rural home in Qunu in the Eastern Cape.

Family members immediately canvassed the neighbourhood for children to join their party.  It was a special day for all of us.

After the party Madiba, came over to me and said: "Let's take photos." I was blown over - he did not even know me as this was my first time at his home.
 
I've been going to his home ever since to help with setting up functions, and the last one had been for his 95th birthday.

 
I will miss him.

Efstathios Manolelis

 - Fin24

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