Mbeki shared a vision with Zenawi on African renaissance. (SABC)
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Former President Thabo Mbeki will address mourners today at the funeral of the late Ethiopian prime minister Meles Zenawi. The two shared many platforms and had a common vision for Africa’s renaissance when they both served.
During the week Mbeki described Zenawi as an outstanding leader who did his best to promote economic development on the continent. He also added that Zenawi played an important role in ensuring that New Partnership for Africa's Development was adopted by the African Union.
Zenawi died a week ago at the age of 57 after a long illness in Belguim. He had been in power for 21years.
He earned respect among his peers having managed to carve himself a role as a diplomat both in Africa and on the global stage, mediating in the conflict in Sudan and South Sudan. He also took a major role in the African Union and Horn of Africa affairs sending his troops twice to Somalia.
President Jacob Zuma and AU Chair Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma have arrived in Addis Ababa to attend the funeral . Several African leaders are also expected to attend.
