In Cuba, the convoy carrying the ashes of former leader Fidel Castro will end a nationwide journey in the eastern city of Santiago de Cuba on Saturday.

Fidel Castro to be interred in private ceremony [File photo/Xinhua]

It has been passing crowds of people chanting "I am Fidel!" and making stops along the way to the country's second largest city. President Raul Castro is expected to deliver a highly-anticipated speech at a ceremony which will be attended by a host of foreign dignitaries.

Capping a nine-day mourning period, Castro's remains will be interred during a private ceremony on Sunday at the Santa Ifigenia cemetery, where 19th century independence hero Jose Marti is buried. The 90-year-old's death has provoked much discussion about his divisive legacy.