The South African government and citizens from all walks of life on Thursday commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, by making their positive contributions in communities across the country.
JOHANNESBURG, July 19 (Xinhua) -- The South African government and citizens from all walks of life on Thursday commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day, also known as Mandela Day, by making their positive contributions in communities across the country.
"The 2024 Mandela Day holds special significance because, on this day in 1994, former President Mandela presided over the first Government of National Unity," the South African government said in a statement.
The year of 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the birth of South Africa's democratic government, a milestone that Mandela was instrumental in achieving, and globally, he became the symbol of freedom and democracy, the statement said.
Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa called for individuals, communities, and businesses to support a charity or help the less fortunate, including those affected by floods and other natural disasters that have recently impacted the country.
"If we are to truly honor Nelson Mandela's legacy, we ought to cultivate a culture of working together to ensure that the vulnerable are supported and feel a part of our society," Mnukwa said.
The Mandela Day, an annual international day in honor of Nelson Mandela, is celebrated each year on July 18, Mandela's birthday.
This year's Mandela Day was celebrated under the theme: "It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity," according to Mnukwa. ■
