Pretoria - Government has called on South Africans and the international community to actively participate in the activities of Nelson Mandela Month during July.
Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) on Tuesday said the call by government encourages people from all walks of life to lead activities under the theme: “Make everyday a Mandela Day: Contributing 67 minutes of our time to help those in need”.
The day, 18 July, marks the birthday of the late former President. This year is the second Mandela Month since his passing.
“Since 2008, the country and the world has been celebrating Mandela Day on 18 July 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,” GCIS said.
Acting Cabinet Spokesperson Phumla Williams encouraged communities, government departments, municipalities, state-owned entities and non-governmental organisations to roll up their sleeves in honour of Mandela.
“It is important to dedicate our time in assisting those in need by contributing to the good cause 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.”
Williams said Mandela 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.
“In 2014, government ministers and deputy ministers participated in more than 34 charity events in support of Mandela Day and this year, government calls on all people to play their part by coordinating various activities, throughout the month especially on Mandela Day,” the GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za
