Queen Elizabeth has announced President Jacob Zuma will make a state visit to Britain next March.

Zuma's office confirmed he would visit the United Kingdom and other countries next year.

The announcement by the Queen in her final speech to Parliament of the current government caught Zuma's staff off guard.

For security reasons they keep their cards close to their chest until a few weeks before Zuma travels.

For example, his visit to Zambia early next month was announced on Tuesday.

Zuma concentrated on African destinations during his presidency, starting with Angola.

Britain is the first major bilateral western invitation he has received.

South Africa has had a disproportionate share of the rare state visits to the UK.

Presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki have both made the carriage ride to see the Queen.

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