Nelson Mandela Day – 7 July 2009

On 18 July 2009, the 91st birthday of our iconic leader, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, citizens across the world are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to community service.

It was 67 years ago that Mr Mandela joined the ANC and committed himself to a lifetime of selfless struggle for human rights and justice. The historic first Nelson Mandela Day 2009 was conceived by the charity 46664 and endorsed by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. At parliament, addressing media on 7 July,  Chief Whip of the ANC Dr Mathole Motshekga committed MPs to supporting the initiative. Also present at the media briefing was Mr Mandela’s grandson, Mr Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, himself an ANC MP, and Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture Mr Paul Mashitile.