From Main&Guardian

South African businesses, including shops owned by Wal-Mart Stores,  Massmart Holdings unit and a mine owned by Kumba Iron Ore, will be closed on the day of former president Nelson Mandela’s funeral.

Shoprite Holdings, the nation’s biggest grocer, will also shut on the day of the funeral, Sarita van Wyk, a spokesperson for the company, said by email. All banks will close their head offices, branches and other premises on the day, the Banking Association of South Africa said on December 6.

“This decision, which we have taken in consultation with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, will enable our staff to spend time with their families on the day of Madiba’s funeral and honour a great statesman in ensuring that his legacy continues,” Massmart said in an emailed statement on Tuesday.

Written by Jaco Visser, Andre Janse Van Vuuren and Janice Kew | Read more at Main&Guardian