Germany's president to attend Madiba's memorial service

Germany's federal president Joachim Gauck says Mandela has shown people how to use their freedom responsibly(German government)

It has been confirmed that German Federal President Joachim Gauck will attend the memorial Service for former South African President Nelson Mandela at the FNB Stadium on 10 December, 2013.

He also sent a message of condolence to Nelson Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel, and all South Africans.

Gauck said in a statement that the world has lost a great statesman, someone who embodied reconciliation, peace and justice like few others. "As a man and as a political leader, Nelson Mandela was a shining example of how hatred, violence and racism can be overcome."

"Despite the humiliating experience of 27 years in prison, he found the courage and strength to lead his country to democracy on the path of non-violence. He firmly believed that not only the oppressed but also the oppressors had to be liberated."

Gauck added: "An important part of this endeavour was the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was established at his initiative and has served as a model for many countries around the world. Nelson Mandela showed not only that the struggle for political freedom can be won by peaceful means, however. He also showed how important it is use this freedom responsibly and ensure that is preserved. That is Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the mission he leaves to us all.

Other heads of state who will come to South Africa to pay their last respects include US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle.

The White House said it was not yet clear whether Obama will stay in the country until Mandela is buried in the Eastern Cape next Sunday.

UN chief  Ban Ki-moon, who is  currently in France attending a summit on peace and security in Africa, will travel directly from Paris to participate in a memorial ceremony at Johannesburg's Soccer City on Tuesday.