Various events were held in Ottawa to mark the passing  of the former President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. These included the opening of a Book of Condolences at the South African High Commission (Dec. 6 – 13),  a memorial service at Parkdale United Church on December 13 and a breakfast with community leaders, hosted by the Nigerian Professionals and Business Network on December 21, with South Africa’s High Commissioner Membathisi Mdlandlana as keynote speaker. Mr. Mandela died on December 5 following a long illness. He was 95.

Submitted by Sarah Onyango