16 July 2013
Nelson Mandela Day should serve as a catalyst for fostering social cohesion, nation building, economic development and inclusive citizenship, the Department of Arts and Culture said on Monday.
Marked across the world on 18 July each year, Mandela Day aims to inspire people to take action to change the world for the better and, in doing so, to build a global movement for good.
People around the world are challenged to spend at least 67 minutes doing good work in their communities in honour of the 67 years that Mandela gave in service and sacrifice.
South Africa’s focus this year would be “on community development and a call to everyone to use their energies, wisdom and skills to contribute towards eradicating poverty, addressing food security and reducing hunger”, the department said in a statement.
Arts and Culture Minister Paul Mashatile and his deputy, Joe Phaahla, will get a first-hand look at progress made at the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday. The museum has been temporarily closed for refurbishments to improve preservation standards and create more exhibition space.
On Mandela Day, Mashatile and Phaahla will visit Qunu Junior Secondary near Mthatha, where Mandela attended as a boy, to donate books to the school’s arts centre.
The department will also help to clean and beautify the school through public art, and install flags in 10 surrounding schools.
SAinfo reporter
