Ramaphosa, Obama Join Leaders Sending Condolences on Passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his deep condolences to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, on the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

As the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip was the longest-serving consort in the history of the British monarchy.

Prince Philip passed away on Friday, 9 April 2021, at the age of 99.

President Ramaphosa says South Africa’s thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty, the Royal Family, the Government and people of the United Kingdom as they mourn their loss.

The President paid tribute to Prince Philip, saying he was a remarkable public figure who lived an extraordinary life and who will be fondly remembered by many people around the world.

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, also sent a message saying: “My deepest condolences to the people of the United Kingdom and the @RoyalFamily on the death of His Royal Highness Prince Phillip. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Former US President Barack Obama has shared the following tribute to Prince Philip:

When we first met His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, he and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had already been on the world stage for more than half a century — welcoming leaders like Churchill and Kennedy; Mandela and Gorbachev. As two Americans unaccustomed to palaces and pomp, we didn’t know what to expect.

We shouldn’t have worried. The Queen and Prince Philip immediately put us at ease with their grace and generosity, turning a ceremonial occasion into something far more natural, even comfortable. Prince Philip in particular was kind and warm, with a sharp wit and unfailing good humor. It was our first introduction to the man behind the title, and in the years since, our admiration for him has only grown. We will miss him dearly.

Like the Queen, Prince Philip saw world wars and economic crises come and go. The radio gave way to the television, and the television to the internet. And through it all, he helped provide steady leadership and guiding wisdom. It has long been said that the United States and Great Britain have a special relationship — one that has been maintained and strengthened not just by presidents and prime ministers but by the Royal Family that has outlasted them all.

At the Queen’s side or trailing the customary two steps behind, Prince Philip showed the world what it meant to be a supportive husband to a powerful woman. Yet he also found a way to lead without demanding the spotlight — serving in combat in World War II, commanding a frigate in the Royal Navy, and tirelessly touring the world to champion British industry and excellence. Through his extraordinary example, he proved that true partnership has room for both ambition and selflessness — all in service of something greater.

As the world mourns his loss, we send our warmest wishes and deepest sympathies to the Queen, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and everyone who knew and loved this remarkable man.

HE late President Nelson Mandela of South Africa, Prince of abaThembu Kingdom his daughter Princess Zenani Mandela Dlamini during their state visit to UK with HM Queen Elizabeth II of UK and her late husband HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh

Photo : Anwar Hussein /Getty images pic.twitter.com/IRJZHVsYYv

— The African Royal Families (@ThAfricanRoyals) April 9, 2021