Nelson Mandela, the iconic South African leader who dedicated his life to fighting apartheid and promoting social justice, is celebrated annually on July 18th, which marks his birthday. This year, as the world commemorates what would have been Mandela’s 106th birthday, it is a time to reflect on his remarkable life and enduring legacy.
Honoring Mandela’s Legacy
Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, was launched on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, July 18, 2009, via a unanimous decision of the United Nations General Assembly. This decision was inspired by a call made by Nelson Mandela a year earlier, urging the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices. On his birthday, the world comes together to honor the legacy of one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. We celebrate Mandela’s life and his unwavering commitment to human rights, democracy, and social justice.
Mandela, who would have turned 106 this year, is revered for his pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement and his subsequent efforts to heal the wounds of racial segregation in South Africa. Following nearly three decades of imprisonment due to his political activism, he was released and went on to become the nation’s inaugural president chosen through democratic elections in 1994. His leadership marked the beginning of a period focused on healing divisions and moving the country forward.
10 Interesting Facts About Nelson Mandela
- Born as Rolihlahla Mandela, his name in the Xhosa language translates to “troublemaker.” At the age of seven, his elementary school instructor assigned him the name Nelson, which he used for the rest of his life.
- During his imprisonment, Mandela’s communication with the outside world was severely restricted. He was permitted to send only two letters per year, spaced six months apart. Additionally, he was allowed just a single visitor annually.
(Source: NPR)
- Contrary to his peacekeeping personality, Nelson Mandela enjoyed boxing as a hobby
- Mandela’s skillful evasion of authorities while conducting work for the African National Congress (ANC) led to him being known as “the black Pimpernel.” This name was inspired by drawing similarities with the protagonist and fictional character in “The Scarlet Pimpernel.”
- Nelson Mandela spent nearly 27 years of his life in jail, with 18 years of his imprisonment on Robben Island. Upon being granted his freedom, Mandela made an unusual request by asking to stay in prison for an additional seven days. This extra time was intended to allow him, his family, and his political organization to adequately prepare for the significant event of his release.
- The 1993 Nobel Peace Prize was jointly bestowed upon Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk. They received this honor in recognition of their collaborative efforts to peacefully dismantle the apartheid system and establish the groundwork for a new, democratic era in South Africa.
(Source: Mint)
- While in prison, Mandela continued his activism and served as a mentor to other prisoners, teaching them about nonviolent resistance and the importance of education. He had broken new ground in his family by becoming the first to receive formal schooling.
- Mandela was a passionate lover of sports, viewing them as a potent force for global transformation. He believed in its unique ability to motivate people and bring them together.
- Following his term as president, Mandela emerged as a prominent supporter for those affected by HIV/AIDS. His advocacy was partly motivated by personal loss, as the disease had taken the life of his son Makgatho.
- 1994 marked a momentous year for Mandela, as it was both the first time he cast a vote in an election and the year he was elected as South Africa’s president. He was 76 years old.
Continuing Mandela’s Vision
This year’s Mandela Day theme, “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity,” is a poignant reminder of the unfinished work that lies ahead. In today’s world while we continue to deal with the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis and face escalating issues of environmental degradation and global tensions, Mandela’s aspirations for a fairer and more balanced society soar and resonate strongly.
Global Observances and Initiatives
To commemorate the occasion, the United Nations General Assembly will host an informal plenary meeting at the UN Headquarters in New York, featuring addresses by dignitaries and a pre-recorded message from Goodwill Ambassador for the International Fund for Agricultural Development and philanthropist, Sabrina Dhowre Elba. Additionally, a public service activity is planned on Randall’s Island in New York City, where volunteers will work to remove invasive plants and introduce new native plantings.
(Source: BellaNaija9
Beyond the official events, individuals and organizations around the world are encouraged to heed Mandela’s call to action and make a difference in their communities. The “67 Minutes of Service” campaign, which encourages people to devote 67 minutes of their time to volunteer work, has evolved into a broader effort to drive sustainable, lasting impacts.
Conclusion
When we contemplate Mandela’s journey and lasting impact, his wisdom remains a source of motivation and guidance. He reminded us, “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.” By embracing Mandela’s values of compassion, unity, and a relentless pursuit of justice, we can honor his memory and work towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
