JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) -- The remains of legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba would be returned to South Africa on Wednesday morning, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday.

    Spokesman Ronnie Mamoepa said SA Ambassador to Italy Lenin Shope and his team of diplomats had assisted the family in meeting legal and medical requirements to allow her remains to be returned to South Africa.

    Makeba, fondly known as "Mama Africa", died of a heart attack after a performance in Italy on Sunday night.

    Makeba, whose most famous hits included Pata Pata, The Click Song (Qongqothwane in Xhosa) and Mailaka, died after taking part in a concert for Roberto Saviano, a writer threatened with death by the Mafia.

    Many high-profile politicians and organizations paid tribute to her, especially for her contribution in the struggle against apartheid and for placing it on the global agenda.