Obama Ties Economic Message in Africa to Mandela Legacy

President Barack Obama, in South Africa for a three-day visit to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy, will meet privately with his family instead of going to see the 94-year-old anti-apartheid leader in the hospital, the White House said.

The U.S. president and first lady Michelle Obama will meet privately later today with family members “to offer their thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” the White House said in a statement. “Out of deference to Nelson Mandela’s peace and comfort and the family’s wishes, they will not be visiting the hospital.”