LISTEN: King Zwelithini is celebrated across the continent, President Ramaphosa

He's delivered the eulogy at the official memorial service for King Goodwill Zwelithini at the KwaKhethaomthandayo Royal Palace, in Nongoma. 

The 72-year-old Zulu monarch died on Friday in hospital. He was laid to rest in a private ceremony last night - in a process referred to as "planting."

"He will be remembered for being the staunchest defender of his people. He not only defended and advanced the interest of the Zulu people, but advanced their culture, customs, traditions and a deep sense of identity and nationhood."

Ramaphosa says the King is celebrated across our beloved continent, Africa "Because he valued diversity and respected the cultures of other kingdoms and other nations. 

"During the tumultuous period of transition in this country, he played a significant role in the achievement of democracy the King will be remembered for his role in bringing peace and stability to KZN during the difficult times our country went through."

Ramaphosa told mourners the King championed the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS.

He says during his tenure as chairperson of the SA National Aids Council, he worked with the King on a male circumcision project to help curb the spread of HIV&Aids.

"During my term as Deputy President, working with various sectors of society, we saw this programme grow here in KwaZulu-Natal. His majesty was the champion of this intervention. He called on Amakhosi and community leaders in this province to support this initiative. 

"Today, we have thousands of young men undergoing safe medical circumcision. His majesty readily called on his subjects and championed (male circumcision) as one of the weapons against the spread of the HIV&Aids." 

Listen to the full eulogy below:  

Prime Minister to the monarch and Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, delivered the welcome address at the memorial service.

"The Zulu nation is still here. We are walking through the valley of grief, yet still, we stand. We owe our hope ho his majesty, the King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who honoured the thrown of his father and his father's father, going back to the founder of our nation, his majesty King Shaka. 

"Among all our kings, his majesty's reign was the longest. God granted him longevity and we reaped the rewards. God also granted wisdom, compassion, foresight and courage. Our monarch carried his burden with dignity. "

Watch the livestream of the memorial below: