Panafrican News Agency

Nelson Mandela Day commemorated around the world

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – Millions of South Africans on Monday marked the former world statesman Nelson Mandela’s birthday, which would have been his 104th.

The country’s first democratically elected leader died peacefully at his Johannesburg home in 2013.

Nelson Mandela Day, which was created in 2009 by the United Nations, aims to celebrate Mandela's life and legacy around the world.

The theme for this year is: “Do what you can, with what you have” and is aiming to raise awareness of how food is impacted by climate change.

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is expected to address the UN General Assembly later on Monday. He is expected to speak about the legacy of anti-apartheid leader who spent 27 years in prison and became an icon for promoting racial reconciliation.

The UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and President of the General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid, are also due to deliver remarks.

The UN on Monday saluted “a giant of our time”, saying he remains a “moral compass” for all humanity.

Prince Harry’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, met Mandela in Cape Town in 1997, just weeks before her death in an accident in Paris.

-0- PANA CU/MA 18July2022