SOUTH African President Jacob Zuma was cleared yesterday of benefitting from state-mandated security upgrades to his country home.

A report to parliament by Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko concluded that the 205 million rand (£11 million) works at the Nkandla farm were used to improve security and community welfare, rather than benefitting Mr Zuma and his family.

Mr Nhleko dismissed claims that a swimming pool and amphitheatre were added to the residence, saying that these were in fact a firefighting tank and an anti-erosion feature.

The family homes of all past and present presidents are classified as national key points to be defended against attack.