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Government calls on South Africans from all walks of life and the international community to actively participate in the activities of the Nelson Mandela Month under the theme: “Make everyday a Mandela Day: Contributing 67 minutes of our time to help those in need.”

Since 2008, the country and the world has been celebrating Mandela Day on the 18th July by the United Nations in honour of the country’s first democratically elected president in 1994 following the release of political prisoners and the unbanning of political parties.

Since then various organisations, learning institutions, faith-based organisations, musicians, sports personalities and many more celebrate and commemorate the day in different ways by contributing to society and assisting the needy including old age homes and orphanages.

Acting Cabinet Spokesperson Phumla Williams encourage communities, government departments, municipalities, state-owned entities and non-governmental organisations to roll their sleeves in honour of Mandela.

“It is important to dedicate our time in assisting those in need by contributing to the good course in our respective communities. This is a time to honour and dedicate ourselves in making a difference by contributing in different ways to keep the legacy of Tata Mandela alive.

“This is a global call to action for people world-wide to take responsibility for changing communities and society by making the world a better place by giving our time supporting a charity or serving local communities - no matter how small the action, emulate the principles of Nelson Mandela, “It is in your hands.”

“Tata lived and died for the betterment of humanity.  He dedicated his life to meeting the needs of others.  Let us uphold the values that he championed and make each day a Mandela Day,” Williams said.

Various stakeholders will engage in various activities aimed at uplifting communities. Updates on the daily activities will be communicated through websites of various departments, media advisories, as well as social media platforms.

July is also Social Cohesion Month, and it is important to embrace the spirit of Ubuntu

In 2014, government ministers and deputy ministers participated more than 34 charity events in support of Mandela Day and this year, government calls of all people to play their part by coordinating various activities, throughout the month especially on Mandela Day.

Issued by Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS)