The late former President Nelson Mandela’s values and his deep commitment to human rights, freedom and justice are a source of inspiration for many, says International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor.
“Madiba advocated [for] the dignity and equality of every living person and encouraged engagement and solidarity across borders,” said the Minister on Tuesday.
Pandor was speaking during her visit to the Bophelong Community Centre in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria, where she joined the local community to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day.
The day marks the former statesman’s life and is used as a global call to action for people to recognise their individual power to make an imprint and change the world.
The theme of International Nelson Mandela Day for the year 2023 is: “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity.”
She described Mandela as an internationalist who stood up for the rights of the oppressed around the world as well as a champion for freedom and peace.
“The United Nations General Assembly designated July 18 as ‘Nelson Mandela Day’ in 2009 in honour of his contribution to the culture of peace and freedom not only in South Africa, but globally,” Pandor said.
Pandor said the UN resolution which was unanimously adopted, recognises Mandela’s values and dedication to the service of humanity in conflict resolution; race relations; the promotion of human rights; reconciliation; gender equality; the rights of children and vulnerable groups; as well as the fight against poverty and promotion of social justice.
“Collectively we can contribute to the vision of the Nelson Mandela Foundation for the world to act decisively against climate change and food insecurity.”
Minister Pandor used the occasion to encourage the local communities of Mamelodi and South Africans to do their part by ensuring sustainability as a way of tackling food security.
“We encourage you to plant a fruit tree or start a community vegetable garden that will continually serve vulnerable members of society.”
The Minister and her delegation handed out gifts and planted trees at the facility.
Bophelong Community Centre was established in 2000 by Pastor Titus Sithole as a community-based, one-stop centre of hope, which provides free and easy accessible social and welfare services to the community of Mamelodi and surrounding areas.
Minister Pandor visited the centre 10 years ago, in 2013. This year’s visit served as an opportunity for the Minister to observe how the centre has grown over the past decade and what challenges remain to be addressed.
During her visit at the centre, Minister Pandor was joined by the visiting Irish Deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste), Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin and several Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za
