World leaders gather to remember icon Mandela(2)

United Nation Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said South Africa lost a hero, while the world lost one of its greatest teachers. "Mandela taught by example and was willing to give up everything he had for freedom and equality, for democracy and justice," he said.

He mentioned Nelson Mandela as one of the greatest leaders of time who made sacrifices for freedom, humanity, democracy and justice. "His compassion stands out most. He was angry at injustice, not individuals. He showed the awesome power of forgiveness," he said.

Obama who arrived late to the memorial service said Mandela "moved the nation towards justice."

South African President Jacob Zuma thanked international leaders for being in the country. He said everyone has had a Mandela moment. "This world icon has touched their lives," he said.

"Mandela brought us back on the road to freedom, the first South African elections were peaceful because of him," he said. "He is one of a kind, there is no-one quite like him," he said.

The rains since morning did not dampen the spirit of South African mourners singing and blowing trumpets in eulogy of Mandela. In the stadium flags were flying at half-mast and security was tight with a large contingent of police patrolling and standing on guard.

South Africa's Defense Minister Nosivewe Mapisa-Nqakula told the media that more than 11,000 troops were deployed, as well as a coordinated plan involving the military, air force and police.

"We are talking about Madiba here, so there is no margin for error," police spokesperson, Zweli Mnisi told ENCA news on Tuesday.

Susan Khupe, a young girl, walked 10 km to attend the service and came in early hours, trying to be "one of the early birds and avoid hassles at the gate."

"This is the biggest event ever to happen to South Africa. I have to pay my respect to our beloved hero, Nelson Mandela," said Khupe, wearing an African national Congress (ANC) T-shirt.

"South Africa will never be the same again. Rest in peace my hero, we love you!" said 46-year-old Soweto resident Timothy Nxumalo.

Some of the people at the stadium were carrying placards written: "We love you Tata, Mandela." However, the morning rains washed away some of the messages, but those that stubbornly remained told the stories of the life and death of Mandela.

Parents were bringing their children to remember Mandela. The children, born after the end of apartheid, said they were learning about him in school.

Peter Knox, a 10-year-old primary school boy, said he learnt a lot about Nelson Mandela in history lessons. "He was a gallant fighter, a revolutionary. His imprisonment at the Robin Island didn't prevent him from fighting the rights of the oppressed. I salute him," Knox said.