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U.S. President Barack Obama has hailed Nelson Mandela as a personal inspiration while a visit South Africa. Mr Obama declined to visit Mr Mandela due to the former South African president's poor health. A White House statement explained: "Out deference to Nelson Mandela's peace and comfort and the family's wishes, [the Obamas] will not be visiting the hospital." Obama made it clear reporters Air Force One that he had no intention putting Mr Mandela's health any further risk, saying: "I don't need a photo op….The last thing I want to do is to be any way obtrusive a time when the family is concerned Nelson Mandela's condition."

President Obama called Mandela a "personal hero" and that Mandela's sacrifices to achieve equal rights helped inspire his own political career. While flying to South Africa, Obama told reporters: "The main message we'll want to deliver…is simply a profound gratitude his leadership all these years, and that the thoughts and prayers the American people are with him and his family and his country." Obama later told university students Pretoria to learn lessons Mandela's strength while he was prison 27 years. He said: "Think the hardships and the struggles and being from family and friends. There were dark moments that tested his faith humanity, but he refused to give ."