On July 18, 2023, Dr. Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, will join South Africans and the global community in commemorating Nelson Mandela’s contributions to promoting peace and freedom. The United Nations General Assembly established July 18 as “Nelson Mandela International Day” in November 2009.
Emphasizing the power of individuals to make their mark and change the world, Mandela Day encourages people worldwide to take action. The theme for 2023 is: “The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food and Solidarity.”
Dr. Pandor will visit the Bophelong Community Centre in Mamelodi East on July 18, 2023, at 11:30 am. She will be accompanied by the visiting Irish Deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste), Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister for Defence, Mr. Micheál Martin, as well as several Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to Pretoria.
Founded in 2000 by Pastor Titus Sithole, the Bophelong Community Centre serves as a beacon of hope for the local community, providing free, easily accessible social and welfare services to the people of Mamelodi and surrounding areas.
A decade ago, Dr. Pandor visited the center, and this year’s event offers her a chance to witness its growth and identify any remaining challenges.
Nelson Mandela International Day not only celebrates the life and accomplishments of the beloved South African president, but it also reminds everyone of their individual power in making a positive impact. By participating in Mandela Day activities, Dr. Pandor and other attendees keep the spirit of his message alive, inspiring new generations to continue Mandela’s work of creating a more just and equitable world.
The 2023 theme of climate, food, and solidarity highlights the importance of global collaboration in addressing pressing issues that know no borders. As we face an increasingly interconnected world, where climate change and food insecurity continue to pose daunting challenges, it is paramount that individuals and nations work together in solidarity to build a sustainable and inclusive future.
The Bophelong Community Centre embodies the spirit of Mandela’s vision, providing critical services to those in need and fostering a sense of unity within the community. Its ongoing success serves as a constant reminder of the power of local action and the importance of supporting collaborative efforts to promote positive change.
As the global community comes together to honor Nelson Mandela’s legacy, we are reminded of the potential for transformative change when individuals dedicate themselves to a shared vision of progress. In the spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day, let us continue to strive for a more equitable and sustainable future, ensuring that his legacy lives on through our actions and commitment to the betterment of our world.
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