Ghana's former president and African Union High Representative for Somalia, Flt Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, has described the late Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi as a true Pan-African and a pillar of unity and leadership within the East African sub-region.

President Rawlings described Mr. Zenawi as a man of integrity who brought a sense of nationalism to his country.

The former President paid this tribute in an interview with Ethiopia Television after signing a book of condolence opened at the State House in Addis Ababa on Saturday. He had earlier called on the widow of the fallen premier, Azeb Mesfin in a tearful meeting.

The final funeral rites of the late Prime Minister will take place on Sunday, September 2.