President Barack Obama is scheduled to speak at an upcoming memorial for the late Nelson Mandela, confirmed Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes.
Obama will be part of Tuesday’s memorial in Johannesburg’s soccer stadium.
The president and First Lady along with former President George W. Bush, Laura Bush and Hilary Clinton left for South Africa today via Air Force One.
Former President Jimmy Carter will also travel to South Africa, while former President Bill Clinton will arrive separately.
Rhodes also confirmed that a delegation of American officials is expected to attend Sunday’s burial at Mandela’s home (which will be televised).
In Obama’s absence, Vice President Joe Biden will speak at a special memorial service at the National Cathedral in Washington on Wednesday.
Click here to review all of the memorials and events scheduled for the week.