Nelson Mandela international day, also known as Mandela Day, is an international observance in honor of the revolutionary Nelson Mandela, celebrated annually on his birthday, July 18.
The day was officially set by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first observance of Mandela day held on July 18, 2010
Annually the world celebrates the contribution of the former President of South Africa, who has remained the leader of the anti-apartheid movement, and civil rights advocate who dedicated his life to fighting for equality.
Today, the South African government joins the world in celebrating International Nelson Mandela Day, under the theme “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”.
2022 marks the 13th year since the United Nations General Assembly declared Nelson Mandela’s 18 July birthday, International Nelson Mandela Day. The 2022 International Nelson Mandela Day takes place when several South Africans are mourning the death of their loved ones who have been killed recently through acts of criminality
This day recognizes Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity in conflict resolution, race relations, promotion and protection of human rights; reconciliation; gender equality, and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups; the fight against poverty; the promotion of social justice.
The resolution acknowledges his contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world
Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity — as a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker, and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.
By promoting racial harmony, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s administration worked to destroy the history of white supremacy over black people.
The population of Nelson Mandela’s democratic South Africa was educated and empowered. His vision was centered on the educational advancement of South Africa’s youth, enabling future leaders to improve both their own lives and that of others.
The Literacy for Leadership and Mandela Day Contains Library projects of the Nelson Mandela Foundation that advance traditional and technological literacy programs.
Nelson Mandela remains a symbol of power by resisting oppression. In times of turbulence, Mandela’s legacy teaches everyone to choose dignity over humiliation, speak up during injustice, and forgive rather than hate.
He once said, ‘to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.’’ In, Nelson Mandela prize was established by the UN General Assembly- an award recognizing the achievements of those who went far and beyond to serve humanity
BY TOBIAS CHACHA