Johannesburg - Mention the name Nelson Mandela and the world automatically pictures the iconic man who brought freedom and democracy to South Africa.
His selfless acts over the years have instilled a sense of humanity and compassion in the countless people he inspires around the world, reports Joburg.org.
On his birthday, 18 July, people are urged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time towards the common good of humanity, representing the 67 years of his life he gave to fighting for human rights.
The day is recognised internationally, and was declared Nelson Mandela Day by the United Nations in November 2009.
This year on Nelson Mandela Day, people have been invited to join Pikitup and devoting their time to picking up rubbish, says Zami Nkosi, Pikitup's managing director.
Armed with rubbish bags and rubber gloves, participating residents will take to the streets, cleaning up litter that has been dumped throughout the city.
Pikitup is the City's entity responsible for keeping the city clean and preserving an attractive and hygienic environment for its residents.
The former president, who will turn 92, spent 67 years fighting against social injustice and for equality for all. He spent 27 years in jail for his anti-apartheid activities.
According to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, this annual birthday celebration acts as a global call for people to make an effort to better the world around them. It highlights Mandela's charitable work, which includes his foundation, Children's Fund, 46664 and Rhodes Foundation.
Nelson Rolihahla Mandela was born on 18 July 1918 in a village near Mthatha in Eastern Cape. As a young man he moved to Joburg, where he joined the ANC and began his anti-apartheid activities. He is recognised around the world for his unlimited humility and forgiveness.
Nelson Mandela Day acts as a catalyst for people to realise that ordinary individuals are able to change the world.
"Nelson Mandela gave 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity; all we are asking is that everyone gives 67 minutes of their time, whether it's supporting your chosen charity or serving your local community," says the foundation.
People wanting to contribute their time to Pikitup's cleanup project can get rubbish bags for the day from their nearest depot.
For more information about this project or to find out where the nearest depot is, call Joburg Connect on (011) 375-5555.
