Airports increase capacity ahead of Madiba funeral

Mandela, his fist raised, shows his fortitude and determination to achieve democracy for all. Image: GCIS

Home Affairs spokesman Ronnie Mamoepa said staff capacity had been increased at all affected airports to ensure that there are no delays when diplomats or other dignitaries arrive at the Eastern Cape for Mandelals Sunday burial.

Mamoepa also said Home Affairs was working with other government agencies, like Airports Company SA and the Department of International Relations and Co-operation to ensure that flight schedules and times of arrival for international guests are co-ordinated and run smoothly.

"We have increased capacity in all these airports through re-enforcement at our service counters to make sure all cubicles at our airports - especially OR Tambo, Lanseria, Waterkloof and Port Elizabeth - are staffed on a 24-hour basis for the next week.

"In addition, we have also increased the number of supervisors on duty for all shifts to guarantee efficient operations," he said.

Mandela family thanks mourners

The family of former President Nelson Mandela have thanked the members of the public and dignitaries from around the world for their support during their time of bereavement.

Retired Lieutenant General Temba Matanzima said the gestures of the many South Africans at the memorial service and on the first day of Mandela's lying in the state have far helped the family deal with their difficult times.

"As he lies in peace at the Union Buildings, Madiba will be happy to know that he is surrounded by thousands whom he loved and served in laying the foundation for a non-racial and non-sexist democratic SA.

"We are humbled that millions of South Africans supported him as he came to power and were there when his health failed. They can now join us in bidding him farewell," he said.

Matanzima said the family was humbled after people braved the cold and wet weather conditions to support the family at Tuesday's memorial service.

"While this presented us with some emotional difficulty and sadness, we were also comforted by the knowledge that we were surrounded by loving, supportive friends, comrades and South Africans along with representatives from the international community," he said.