17 July 2014
The idea of Mandela Day was inspired by Mandela at his 90th birthday celebrations in London’s Hyde Park in 2008, when he said: “It is time for new hands to lift the burdens. It is in your hands now.”
The United Nations officially declared 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day in November 2009, recognising Mandela’s “values and his dedication to the service of humanity” and acknowledging his contribution “to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world”.
Celebrated across the globe in honour of the late statesman’s birthday on 18 July, the day gives everyone the opportunity to emulate Mandela’s role as public servant.
Individuals, groups and corporates are challenged to give 67 minutes of their time on the day – one minute for every year of Mandela’s public service – to take action to change the world for the better and, in doing so, to help build a global movement for good.
Find out more about how you can Play Your Part for Madiba:
SAinfo reporter
