Preparations are in full swing to commemorate Nelson Mandela’s release from prison 20 years ago.

However, the African National Congress (ANC) said Madiba would not be attending a ceremony to mark the event.

Thursday marks the 20^th anniversary of Mandela’s release from the Groot Drakenstein Prison, formerly named Victor Verster, outside Paarl.

ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu said the correctional facility will be a hive of activity on Thursday. 

He added Mandela and ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela are not expected to be a part of the pomp and ceremony.

Mthembu said there would be a number of other important figures present as well.

Meanwhile, inmates are hard at work sprucing up the facility ahead of the celebrations.

(Edited by Danya Philander)