Nelson Mandela died today at the age of 95. The world will never be the same. We’ve lost one of the most sincere and passionate leaders Africa’s ever seen. His motivation and drive for equality has touched millions. 

The former South African president, who survived 27 years in prison for his stubborn yet humane beliefs that eventually led to the dissolvement of the country’s apartheid system, passed away after a long battle with a chronic lung infection.

“We’ve lost our greatest son,” said South African President Jacob Zuma when announcing Mandela’s death.

Mandela suffered a number of health issues in his later years, which led to multiple hospitalizations due to a chronic lung infection. Mandela had been listed in “serious but stable condition” after leaving the hospital in June to return home, where he continued to receive medical care. Back in December 2012, Mandela spent 18 months in the hospital for a similar lung infection and was treated for gallstones, ABC News reports.

Throughout his later years, Mandela’s public appearances dwindled due to increasing health complications. His last appearance was in July of 2010, when he attended the closing ceremonies of the soccer World Cup in South Africa.

In a brief statement on Thursday, President Barack Obama said Mandela "no longer belongs to us; he belongs to the ages." The president added, "We will not likely see the likes of Nelson Mandela ever again. So it falls to us, as best we can, to carry forward the example that he set."

Today the world lost a great man. The lessons he passed on to South Africa and the rest of the world will be cherished and revered for eternity. Madela may have died, but his spirit will ripple through time.