As the world comes together to observe Nelson Mandela International Day, the Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker Mme Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Ntate Amos Masondo, proudly join millions of people in honoring the indomitable spirit of Tata Madiba. This day, which marks the 105th birth anniversary of the late Nelson Mandela, is a reminder of his enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations across the globe.
Mandela Day is not merely an occasion to celebrate the birth of South Africa’s founding father and first Black President, but a resounding call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations worldwide. It urges everyone to reflect on the timeless values and principles that guided Mandela throughout his extraordinary life and to make a positive impact in their communities.
The late former President Mandela, an unparalleled global icon of peace, compassion, and human dignity, was a beacon of hope for millions who endured oppression and injustice. His life journey, marked by 27 years of imprisonment in his fight against apartheid, illuminates the path of justice and the power of resilience to overcome even the greatest adversities.
As the Presiding Officers pay tribute to the legacy of Tata Madiba, they emphasize the significance of embracing his enduring values as guiding forces in our daily lives. They call upon all South Africans and leaders worldwide to embody these principles in their actions, decisions, and interactions, ensuring that Mandela’s vision of equality, justice, and harmony prevails.
“Tata Madiba’s unique qualities of leadership are more crucial now than ever before. We need leaders who advocate tirelessly for peace and justice, who disarm opponents through their powerful presence, and who prioritize collective goals over self-interests,” said the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Ntate Lechesa Tsenoli.
In the spirit of giving back, the Deputy Speaker and parliamentary staff dedicate their 67 minutes—a tribute to Tata Madiba’s 67 years of public service—to honor his legacy. This year, they stand in solidarity with the community of Rawsonville, Western Cape, which recently faced devastating floods, displacing over 1,000 people. By extending a helping hand, they aim to actively address the challenges faced by their fellow citizens and offer support during difficult times.
Beyond the symbolic commemoration, Mandela Day serves as an annual opportunity for people to translate his values into concrete actions that uplift the marginalized, empower the oppressed, and build bridges of understanding among all people. It is a time for reflection on Mandela’s tireless fight against inequality and his boundless capacity for forgiveness, inspiring individuals to uphold integrity, empathy, and compassion in their leadership roles.
The program for Mandela Day outlines various initiatives planned for the day, inviting individuals to engage and contribute to the shared vision of a just and equitable world. These initiatives align with the broader objectives of the Parliament to address societal challenges and uplift communities across the nation.
On this momentous Mandela Day, let us all unite in upholding the values that Tata Madiba embodied. As we look to the future, may we be guided by his light, recognizing that even the most arduous struggle is worth waging if it leads to a world of equality, justice, and harmony.
As the nation and the world celebrate Mandela Day, let us remember that the enduring legacy of Tata Madiba lives on through the actions of those who strive to make a positive impact on their communities, embodying the principles that he held dear: freedom, compassion, and justice for all.
