Pretoria - International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) Deputy Minister Nomaindiya Mfeketo celebrated Mandela Day by spending time with the elderly in Hong Kong, China.
In honouring 18th July, the day on which former President Nelson Mandela was born, the Deputy Minister joined scores of volunteers from South Africa, the Diplomatic Community, business and other key stakeholders based in Hong Kong to spend 67 minutes of their time with staff and the elderly people of the Aberdeen Kai-Fong Welfare Association Fong Wong Wun Tei Neighbourhood Elderly Centre (AKA).
“The centre advocates for the needy by providing appropriate welfare services and social facilities to the different age groups in areas such as community care, healthcare, shelter, and other unique needs of the elderly community in the estate,” Dirco said in a statement.
The Deputy Minister also delivered an address at the centre.
“From him [Mandela] we have learned that you can be a leader and still respect others in actions and deeds regardless of their status in life. As we celebrate this important day, we must also challenge ourselves, and deeply reflect on the values that Madiba instilled in all of us,” said the Deputy Minister.
In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela International Day” in recognition of the former statesmen’s contributions to the entire humanity.
Every year, on this day, people around the world get together and spare 67 minutes to be of service to humanity. - SAnews.gov.za
