Tomorrow is Nelson Mandela Day
Masahudu Ankiilu Kunateh, Ghanadot
“It is time for new hands to lift the burdens” – Nelson
Mandela, 2008
Accra, July 17, Ghanadot - The
Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664, the campaign vehicle of
the Mandela organizations, are calling for Mandela Day on 18
July, to be recognized as an annual international ‘day of
humanitarian action’ in celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life
and legacy.
Mandela Day is designed to harness the hope and inspiration
that Mr Mandela has brought to the world by galvanizing a
global movement for good. This day will be characterized by
local people taking charge of their own destinies and at the
same time, they will be honouring Nelson Mandela by doing
good for others. It is hoped that Mandela Day will be a
catalyst for individuals and communities to emphasize the
values of ‘social cohesion’ such as inclusivity and respect.
Whatever activity is planned should promote dialogue and a
sense of community.
Mandela Day, is not a holiday but is intended to become an
annual celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life and a global
call to action for people to recognize that everyone has the
power to change the world around them. The ultimate aim is
the creation of a continuous movement for good.
Nelson Mandela has given 67 years of his life in service. On
Mandela Day we ask individuals to give at least 67 minutes
of their time in service to their communities in whichever
way they choose. Although the 67 minutes call is symbolic,
we urge people to become involved in good works on an
ongoing basis, thereby helping to create a movement for
good.
A global movement for positive change begins with small
actions. Each person who responds to this call should decide
for themselves what they would like to do, and then do it as
a tribute to Nelson Mandela. As he has reminded us, “it’s in
our hands” to create a better world and we take inspiration
from his example to take responsibility for ourselves and to
understand our responsibility for others.
In a release issued in Accra, the South African High
Commission in Ghana, it stated that the Mandela Day campaign
welcomes the involvement of individuals, organizations,
companies and NGOs and encourages them to do something good
to improve their communities.
In a related development, the South African High Commission
in Ghana will participate in the inaugural 67-minute Mandela
Day Campaign on 18 July 2009 by visiting the SOS Children’s
Village in Tema.
The South African High Commissioner, Ms Ntombizodwa Lallie,
and diplomats will volunteer their time to repaint walls in
the Village. The SOS children will be making palm imprints
on a wall to show their active commitment to Mandela Day.
The Minister of Women and Children’s Affairs, Ms Akua Serna
Dansua, is scheduled to participate in the event.
South African companies, Shoprite and Game as well as
Coca-Cola will be supporting the event.
Ghanadot
