Royal welcome for Zuma
A display of British pomp and pageantry greeted South African President Jacob Zuma at the start of a three-day state visit overshadowed by controversy about his polygamy.
During a banquet speech last night the Queen praised South Africa’s successful journey of “liberation and democratic renewal” heralded by Nelson Mandela’s release.
The Queen described how, since Mr Mandela was freed 20 years ago, the country had managed to transform itself. Earlier, Mr Zuma, 67, who has three wives and has fathered 20 children, was welcomed by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh on Horse Guards Parade in London’s Whitehall.
The President chose his third wife, former bank clerk Thobeka Madiba, 36, to accompany him.