Nelson Mandela Dead Aged 95, World Pays Tribute

Former South African presidentNelson Mandela has died, aged 95.

The iconic leader, who helped end nearly 50 years of racial segregation by a white minority government in South Africa, sadly passed away on Thursday (December 5) after a series of lung infections.

Mandela's anti-apartheid activities, imprisonment and eventual release, which was followed by electoral success, made him a hero to those in South Africa, as well as people across the globe.

Current South African President Prince William and wifeKate Middleton learnt of Mandela's death at the London premiere of Long Walk To Freedom - a movie about his life, where Idris Elba portrays the leader.

Wills was quoted by The Sun as saying: "It's obviously extremely sad and tragic news. We've just been reminded what an extraordinary and inspiring man Nelson Mandela was. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family right now."

Check out a round-up of tributes below:

President Obama remembers Nelson Mandela: "A man who took history in his hands and bent the arc of the moral universe towards justice."

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 5, 2013

A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time. I've asked for the flag at No10 to be flown at half mast.

— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) December 5, 2013

I will never forget my friend Madiba. pic.twitter.com/UX21ZZG7cg

— Bill Clinton (@billclinton) December 5, 2013

Beyoncé: "Thank you for all you have sacrificed to improve the lives of other human beings. Rest in peace."

Rihanna: "One of the greatest men who's ever lived!!! #Legend We will never forget the things this man has taught us, and we will never truly comprehend the level of strength that it took for him to endure many of his years!! Thank you #Mandela."

David Beckham: "My heart goes out to the people in South Africa and Mr Mandela's family. We have lost a true gentleman and a courageous human being. It was truly an honor to have known a man who had genuine love for so many people. Rest in peace."

Picture: © Facebook / David Beckham

Kim Kardashian: "R.I.P. Nelson Mandela...may your principles of love be the guiding light for future generations."

John Legend: "I've never been so honored to meet anyone #Mandela."

Fergie: "Meeting #NelsonMandela at his house in Johannesburg was a truly memorable moment in life for me. He was an angel."

Justin Bieber: "Rip".

Cheryl Cole:"What an incredible human being.. So sad to hear this news but heaven must've been missing an angel. R.I.P Nelson Mandela. Gone but NEVER forgotten."

God Bless @NelsonMandela Tears stream as it was an honor to have known u. U were truly exceptional & an inspiration pic.twitter.com/jT0Cs76XPx

— Nicole Scherzinger (@NicoleScherzy) December 6, 2013

I'm stunned, crushed, in mourning with you and his family, I feel only honoured to have portrayed him.  He's in a better place now.  RIP NM.

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) December 6, 2013

Thank you Nelson Mandela. All the best on your transition.

— Nasir Jones (@Nas) December 5, 2013

The world's lost an iconic leader, South Africa's lost its very soul. My deepest condolences to those wonderful people. #RIPMadiba

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 5, 2013