JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South Africans are reacting to the death of Nelson Mandela with deep sadness at the loss of a man considered by many to be the father of the nation.

Mourners also say it is a time to celebrate the achievements of the iconic former South African president and anti-apartheid leader.

One Johannesburg resident, 31-year-old Hamsa Moosa, said after the 95-year-old Mandela died Thursday night that he “wouldn’t be free” if not for the man affectionately known by his clan name “Madiba.”

A 29-year-old accountant, Thumelo Madikwe, says Mandela played his role in the world “very well” and that he lived a long life.

South African President Jacob Zuma announced Mandela’s death late Thursday.