People mourn Mandela and sing and dance to celebrate his life (LI JIANGUO)

Since South African President Jacob Zuma announced the death of Nelson Mandela on the night of December 5, 2013, Mandela's residence in Houghton, Johannesburg has been crowded with people coming to mourn him and celebrate his life.

While some people have come on their own, many are accompanied by their family, friends and colleagues. They lay flowers and light candles to show their respect and mourning for Madiba (Mandela's clan name affectionately used by South Africans). They cry to mourn his death, and sing and dance to celebrate his life.

Jeanette Hlangwane cried after laying flowers before Madiba's portrait. She regarded Mandela as her father. "I was sad because I didn't spend time with my father when he was with us," she said. "I know we just need to pray for him. We are not supposed to cry but tears just come."

Michael Baillie and his colleague came to present flowers to Madiba as soon as they got the news on twitter. He said that he had mixed feelings, sad for losing such an incredible man who has done so much for the people. But at the same time, it might be a relief for a 95-year- old person to now be able to rest in peace. Baillie said that it was incredible to see that Mandela's passing has been able to unite the nation again.

Security guard Milton Baron was part of the singing and dancing group. He said that they celebrated what Madiba had done for the people. "He is an icon and the father of the nation," said Baron.

(Reporting from Johannesburg)