Nelson Mandela Dies, President Confirms Nelson Mandela has died, South African President Jacob Zuma has confirmed. Mr Zuma said "the nation has lost its greatest son," adding "he is now resting. He is now at peace. :: Live coverage: all the latest news and reaction now on Sky News HD He died surrounded by his family at his Johannesburg home at 8.50pm local time. Mr Mandela, who was 95, will get a state funeral and national flags will be lowered to half mast, said Mr Zuma. Mr Mandela had been receiving medical treatment for the last three years for a prolonged lung infection and for the last six months had been critically ill. "Our people have lost a father," said Mr Zuma. Although we knew this day was going to come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss. His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, passion and humanity, earned him their love. The anti-apartheid icon served as South Africa's first black president from 1994 to 1999 after spending 27 years in the notorious Robben Island prison. Crowds outside Mr Mandela's home have been singing songs in his praise Madiba - as he was affectionately known by many South Africans - was released in 1990 and went on to guide his country to democracy, bringing an end to white minority rule and securing black people the right to vote. Prime Minister David Cameron, speaking outside Downing Street, said: "Tonight one of the brightest lights of our world has gone out. Nelson Mandela was not just a hero of our time, but a hero of all time. "Through his dignity, through his triumph, (he) inspired millions," Mr Cameron added. US President Barack Obama called Mr Mandela an "extraordinary man" whose journey from prisoner to president had inspired the world, as well as him personally. Mr Mandela was released in 1990 after nearly three decades in prison "He achieved more than can be expected of any man - and today he's gone home," said President Obama. We've lost one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth. He no longer belongs to us - he belongs to the ages. Crowds have gathered outside Mr Mandela's Johannesburg home singing songs in celebration of his life. Sky News' Alex Crawford, at the scene, said people are dancing and clapping. Mr Mandela with his great grandson after one of his recent hospital stays "People are upset," said Crawford ."They've come with flowers, people are obviously very emotional about it, but they are also in a very celebratory mood as well." It was very sombre when we arrived (but) more and more people have gathered here and the mood is entirely different. It has changed to singing tribute songs, they've sung the national anthem, they're singing a lot of songs from way back when they were pushing for democratic rights.