Livern Barrett, Gleaner Writer

South African President Jacob Zuma and his wife arrived in Jamaica a short while ago for what has now been reduced to a one-day State visit.

Zuma and his wife Nompumelelo MaNtuli Zuma were expected in the island yesterday for a two-day visit but that changed because of the threat of Tropical Storm Ernesto.

On his arrival at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, the South African president was greeted by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller and members of the Cabinet.

He inspected a guard of honour furnished by the First Battalion Jamaica Regiment before he was whisked away for a courtesy call on Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.

Mrs Zuma was presented with a bouquet by Arianne Smith, a student of St Richards Primary School and the second highest scorer in this year's GSAT exams.

Jamaica House says Zuma will hold talks with Simpson Miller before a joint mid-morning press conference.

He is expected to participate in several independence day activities this afternoon before leaving Jamaica later today.

livern.barrett@gleanerjm.com