U.S. President Barack Obama praised Nelson Mandela while he was visiting Africa. Obama said Mandela was an inspiration to him. Mr Obama didn't visit Mr Mandela in hospital because of Mandela's poor health. The White House explained that Mandela's peace and comfort and his family's wishes were more important. Obama told reporters that he did not want to do anything to put Mr Mandela's health at risk. He said: "I don't need a photo op". He added that he did not want to get in the way at Mandela's hospital, especially when the family is concerned about Nelson Mandela's condition.

President Obama called Mandela a "personal hero". He said Mandela gave up many things in his life to get equal rights. He said Mandela's actions helped his own career. While flying to South Africa, Obama told reporters that "the main message we'll want to deliver" is a big thank you "for his leadership". He added that: "The thoughts and prayers of the American people are with him". Obama later told university students in Pretoria to learn lessons from Mandela's 27 years in prison. He said: "There were dark moments that tested his faith in humanity, but he refused to give up."