The popular singer remarked on her experience of meeting the late icon when she came to the country to perform at the 4664 concert in 2003.
R&B pop singer Beyoncé said she is happy to celebrate Mandela’s legacy at the upcoming Global Citizen Festival happening on Sunday, 2 December 2018.
“It is an honour for me to travel to South Africa this week in celebration of you and your efforts to right so many wrongs,” she said in a letter published in The Sowetan newspaper.
The star is set to perform at the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, a centenary celebration of Mandela’s life and legacy.
The Formation hit-maker first met the late former president when she came to the country to perform at the 46664 concert in 2003.
The 2003 concert was also in celebration of the struggle stalwart. She reminisced about her trip to Robben Island with the icon.
“I remember taking that walk with you back to the prison on Robben Island where you spent 18 of those imprisoned 27 years,” she remembered.
“I recall your measured but focused steps in as you recounted the stories of the struggles, the sacrifices and your resilience.”
Beyoncé said his legacy serves as an inspiration to her and the people closest to her.
“Your kindness and gratitude for every experience, and your ability to forgive are lessons I have learned and will pass on to my three children,” she wrote. “My entire family holds you in high regard.”
The singer will be accompanied on stage by her husband Jay-Z, this weekend.
Audiences tuning into the show will enjoy performances by Cassper Nyovest, D’banj, Ed Sheeran, Eddie Vedder, Femi Kuti, Pharrell Williams & Chris Martin, Sho Madjozi, Tiwa Savage, Usher and Wizkid.
Xiletelo Mabasa
x.mabasa@politicalanalysis.co.za
