MOGADISHU - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud on Friday said Africa lost "a true world hero" after former South African president Nelson Mandela passed away the previous day.

"Nelson Mandela impacted the lives of people in every corner of the world. All of Africa will mourn the loss of a true African hero, statesman, and elder," the Somali president said in a statement.

President Hassan sent condolences to South Africa saying "prayers and thoughts are with the Mandela family and the people of South Africa."

"He was an inspiration and beacon of hope to people across the globe who are fighting for justice and peace in the world," the Somali leader said.

Mandela, who served as president of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, died at the age of 95 on Thursday.

The former anti-apartheid icon had battled health problems in recent months, including a recurring lung infection.