Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the country's first black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election. Mandela was born in 1918 in the Eastern Cape and became involved in anti-colonial and African nationalist politics, joining the African National Congress (ANC) in 1943. He was arrested in 1962 and convicted of sabotage and other charges, serving 27 years in prison, most notably on Robben Island. His imprisonment became a focal point of the international anti-apartheid movement, and he emerged as a global symbol of resistance to racial oppression. Following his release in 1990, Mandela led negotiations with President F W de Klerk to dismantle apartheid and establish multiracial elections. As president, he focused on reconciliation, dismantling the legacy of apartheid and addressing institutionalised racism whilst fostering economic development. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 jointly with de Klerk. After retiring from active politics in 1999, Mandela remained a prominent advocate for social justice, human rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. He died in December 2013, and his legacy continues to shape South African political discourse, national identity and international human rights advocacy. Numerous institutions, infrastructure projects and public facilities across South Africa bear his name in recognition of his contribution to the nation's democratic transition.
Nelson Mandela Updates
Ramaphosa calls on S Africans to use Mandela Day to fight poverty, inequality 
By: Thabi Shomolekae 13th July 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South Africans to use the upcoming Nelson Mandela International Day to refocus national efforts on tackling... →
The power to tackle poverty and inequality is in our hands
13th July 2026 Dear Fellow South African, On this Saturday, 18 July, South Africa will join the nations of the world in celebrating Nelson Mandela... →
My Boss, Mrs Mandela
1st July 2026 While Nelson Mandela had Zelda La Grange as his personal assistant, Winnie Mandela had her PA, spiritual anchor and confidante in Zodwa Zwane. Now... →
SACP message of condolences to the family of South African jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim
17th June 2026 The South African Communist Party (SACP) joins the nation and people across the world in mourning the death of one of South Africa's most... →
Mbeki is not the 'super president'
2nd June 2026 Mpumelelo Mkhabela is not given to cheap political theatre. He is usually a level-headed analyst, with the rare gift of making his point without... →
Bafana Bafana inspire us to hope and to strive
1st June 2026 Dear Fellow South African, In just under two weeks’ time, Bafana Bafana will participate in the opening match in this year’s FIFA World Cup... →
Ramaphosa rallies S Africans behind Bafana Bafana ahead of 2026 World Cup opener
By: Thabi Shomolekae 1st June 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on all South Africans to support Bafana Bafana as they prepare to face Mexico in the opening match of the 2026... →
SA: Ronald Lamola: Address by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, on the International Relations and Cooperation Dept Budget Vote 2026/27, Parliament, Cape town (26/0/2026)
29th May 2026 That victory paved the way for the legislative machinery of apartheid, intensifying racial segregation and stripping most of the people of this... →
SACP pays tribute to Comrade Joe Slovo on his centennial birth anniversary
25th May 2026 The South African Communist Party (SACP) takes this moment to honour the revolutionary life and enduring contribution of Comrade Joe Slovo on his... →
SA: Cyril Ramaphosa: Address by South Africa's President, at the South32 Hillside Aluminium anniversary (07/05/2026)
8th May 2026 When President Nelson Mandela opened the smelter in April 1996 he said: “The ultimate yardstick by which we must measure our efforts is the extent... →
