Latest news with #NelsonMandelaFoundation
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Citizen
Pandor calls on leaders to be good 'troublemakers' like Madiba
Pandor reflected on Mandela's life, his values, and the kind of world he envisioned. Former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor delivering the keynote address at the official UN commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day in New York on Friday. Picture: Nelson Mandela Foundation. As South Africans marked Nelson Mandela Day on Friday, former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor called on world leaders to follow in the steps of Madiba by being 'good troublemakers.' Pandor delivered the keynote address at the official UN commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day in New York on Mandela Day. 'Mandela a troublemaker' Speaking in her role as the chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Pandor reflected on Mandela's life, his values, and the kind of world he envisioned. 'While we all, with great affection, refer to President Mandela's first name as 'Nelson', the name that he was actually given at birth was 'Rolihlahla'. In isiXhosa, which was Mandela's mother tongue, the colloquial meaning of Rolihlahla is 'troublemaker''. She explained that while 'Rolihlahla' directly meant 'shake the tree', the isiXhosa name given to Madiba was 'troublemaker.' 'Mandela was a troublemaker. The kind of good troublemaker that we need more of in the world today, and the kind that we will continue to need well into the future. The kind of troublemaker that some people did not always love because he pushed for an equality that we should all enjoy and for the overcoming of a system of oppression which was called convenient and profitable to some,' said Pandor. As South Africans marked Nelson Mandela Day on Friday, former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor called on world leaders to follow in the steps of Madiba by being 'good troublemakers.' #MandelaDay @TheCitizen_News — 𝙵𝚊𝚒𝚣𝚎𝚕 𝙿𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚕 ⚡️ (@FaizelPatel143) July 20, 2025 ALSO READ: 'They never stopped' – Naledi Pandor continues to receive threats 'Fierce man' Pandor said Mandela was a fierce man on matters of justice. 'He pushed for a kind of equality and the overcoming of a system of oppression that was convenient and profitable to some, a system that was defeated in South Africa, but which has yet to be eradicated globally.' SA's freedom Pandor told guests, including United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres, about the role the UN played in South Africa's struggle for freedom. 'The United Nations steered us to freedom, stood against apartheid domination not through arms, but through bringing its undeniable moral weight into combat against injustice. That boldness, that courage is needed more and more today, and we hope as we remember and honour President Mandela, we recall his words, 'It is in your hands.' What would Madiba say? Pandor said the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which she now chairs, often gets asked what Mandela would say or do on certain issues if he were alive today. 'We, too, ask this question of ourselves. In the context of my call here today, the question arises – What kind of world would he be prepared to make good trouble for? Drawing on his life and work, and personal reflections, we believe that it would be a just world. 'A world where justice does not kneel to the rich and powerful; where our collective upliftment takes precedence over individual privilege; where the benefits and burdens of our society are equally shared; where our privilege and personal biases do not sway us from being just; and where our like or dislike of someone does not hinder us from doing what is right in relation to them. This is the kind of world that we need to make good trouble for,' Pandor said. ALSO READ: WATCH: 'SA showing world we have embraced constitutional democracy' − Pandor
Daily Maverick
3 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Maverick
We must honour Mandela by fighting the corruption in the heart of our democracy
Mandela was a lover and a fighter, a symbol of struggle against oppression and a champion of peace and forgiveness. His bravery in standing up against the evil empire is our bravery. His hope and humour and humanity are ours. It's in us and up to us to stand up against those in Mandela's party, and indeed any political party, who choose to rob us blind. Every year we celebrate Mandela Day on 18 July. It's a global campaign to honour the remarkable life and legacy of the founding father of our democracy, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. The Nelson Mandela Foundation turned Madiba's birthday into a call to action for individuals, communities and organisations, urging them to take time to reflect on Mandela's values and principles and make a positive impact in their own communities. I will never forget the warm, fuzzy feeling I felt when I stood shoulder to shoulder with thousands of people on the Grand Parade in Cape Town in 1990 as Mandela stepped on to the balcony of City Hall and said to all of us: 'I come to you as your servant.' It was the humility and dignity of this stately yet grandfatherly man; it was hearing a voice that had been banned for 27 years speak to our hearts; it was the realisation and the sense of relief that the years of campaigning against apartheid and inequality, risking jail and police batons and death, might just have been worth it. That we may have succeeded in toppling the evil empire of racism, exclusion and violence. And that maybe, just maybe, we could live in freedom. There are many of Mandela's heirs in the ANC and its political party offshoots like the MK party, formed as comrades turned on each other for their time to 'eat', and who have done nothing to build on the tremendous goodwill that we, the South African people, have granted them. The recent allegations by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi that a drug cartel based in Gauteng was controlling a high-level criminal syndicate that has the Police Ministry, politicians, prosecutors and judges in its pockets, came as no surprise. Because ever since 1994, more and more comrades have been in cahoots with criminals and gangsters, buying favours and seats at the table. Rot and Cancer We had former police commissioner Jackie Selebi's dalliance with his drug dealer friend, 'finish and klaar' Glenn Agliotti. And the rot and cancer has spread far and wide. The Guptas landed with their bums in bucket-loads of ghee when Jacob Zuma led his family, friends and the ANC into Saxonwold. Judge Raymond Zondo's State Capture chronicles feature a long list of ANC comrades whose fingers were in the trough. Criminality has stretched its tentacles all over the ANC at every centre of government, from local, provincial and national level to parastatals across the country. And when the ANC gets voted out, the criminals find politicians in other parties to cosy up to. It has come to the point where it is hard to trust any politician. We do not know which lobbyist or foreign agency or wealthy person is behind them. Our democracy is a marketplace where favours and influence are sold to the highest bidder. And global druglords who peddle poison to our youth have found ripe pickings in this country that gave Mandela to us and the world. Mandela was a human born of a different era. Our son of the South African soil arrived on 18 July 1918, deep in the era of the colonial conquest that saw the land of indigenous people taken by the minions of the Dutch East India Company and footsoldiers of the British Empire who distributed it to white settler populations. Mandela was a freedom fighter, a leader of the ANC who started the armed struggle and Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) when peaceful protest against apartheid was met with violence. He and his fellow Rivonia triallists' incarceration in the 1960s did not silence their resistance to the apartheid state. Nor could it silence generation after generation of South Africans, from Steve Biko and the Black Consciousness movement to the trade union movement, United Democratic Front, Mass Democratic Movement, Black Sash, Lawyers for Human Rights, Detainees' Parents Support Committee… and ordinary South Africans who stood up, fists clenched against what was wrong. Biko was a proponent of the Black Consciousness philosophy that emphasised the importance of black people freeing ourselves psychologically from the internalised effects of oppression. He urged us to embrace our own identity and take control of our own liberation. For his promotion of self-reliance and resistance to the notion that black people are inferior to white people, he was arrested and murdered in detention. There were others. Millions of others. They belonged to women's groups, churches, temples, artist groups. There were resistance organisations like the New Unity Movement, the Azanian People's Organisation and the Pan-Africanist Congress. Not just the ANC. Not just Mandela. Global icon What drew the world to Mandela and turned him into a global icon was that even though he was a freedom fighter who started MK, he didn't leave Robben Island to sing 'Kill the Boer, kill the farmer' at every opportunity, as ANC protégé and EFF leader Julius Malema does. Nor did he take to every political rally singing Umshini Wami (Bring Me My Machine Gun), as Jacob Zuma does. Mandela was a lover and a fighter, a symbol of struggle against oppression and a champion of peace and forgiveness. His long imprisonment created a powerful narrative of personal sacrifice that humanised the anti-apartheid struggle. On 18 July, and every day, many South Africans give 67 minutes of their time and more to do good — helping others, cleaning cities, caring for neglected children, raising funds for charitable causes in memory of the spirit of Mandela. We are a nation of generous, kind, warm-hearted, freedom-loving people. It is our spirit of resilience and generosity that created Mandela. His bravery in standing up against the evil empire is our bravery. His hope and humour and humanity are ours. It's in us and up to us to stand up against those in Mandela's party, and indeed any political party, who choose to rob us blind. There are no saviours coming to rescue us. In us resides the ability to build the kind of country we deserve. We stand on the shoulders of generations of giants who fought for freedom. It's our turn now. DM
News18
4 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Nelson Mandela Day 2025: History, Significance And 10 Quotes That Inspire Change
Nelson Mandela, who led a peaceful and resilient protest against the white regime, was a great activist and became South Africa's first democratically elected president. Nelson Mandela International Day honours the remarkable legacy of the South African leader. Mandela, who led a peaceful and resilient protest against the oppressive apartheid regime, was a picture of South Africa's brave movement against colour bias and injustice. He became South Africa's first democratically elected president from 1994 to 1999 . Mandela's courageous 27-year jail struggle and journey of upholding human rights, standing up for social justice and equality continue to inspire the world. Nelson Mandela International Day: History In 2009, the United Nations decided to mark July 18 as the Nelson Mandela International Day to celebrate the 67 years of Mandela's public service and unwavering commitment towards establishing freedom, justice and human rights in the rainbow nation that had a history of inhuman racial discrimination against the black Africans. Mandela, who led a peaceful and resilient protest against the inhumane white narcissistic regime, was a great activist and became South Africa's first democratically elected president. Nelson Mandela International Day 2025: A Message Of Peace The Nelson Mandela International Day is used as a means to spread the message of peace, reconciliation and equality across the globe. On 27 April 2009, the 46664 concerts and the Nelson Mandela Foundation invited the global community to join hands in officially establishing a Mandela Day to honour the great politician. It is not meant as a public holiday in South Africa or anywhere in the world, but a day to remember Mandela and imbibe his qualities through contributions in noble causes for community service, echoing the message: one man can make a difference. Nelson Mandela International Day 2025: Quotes 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." 'It always seems impossible until it's done." 'Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again." 'A winner is a dreamer who never gives up." 'I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." 'What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others." 'To be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others." 'Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies." 'Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do." 'Man's goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished." About the Author First Published: July 18, 2025, 07:20 IST Latest News Priyanka Chopra Turns 43: Her Net Worth And 5 Heartwarming Moments With Nick Jonas Movies Tech iPhone 17 Pro Series Colours Leaked: Ready For Some Bright Surprises? Bollywood Watched Urmila's 'Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya'? This Woman's Love Is Scarier: 'Will Make Sushi Outta Ur...' Politics PM Modi To Hold Rally, Unveil Over Rs 5000 Cr Worth Of Infra Projects In Bengal Today | Updates Cricket Smriti Mandhana Birthday: Why Indian Women's Cricketer Wears Jersey No. 18 latest news
IOL News
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Unmissable events in Joburg: from musical collaborations to Christmas in July
Murdah Bongz also known as Mörda. Bassline Live presents 'History of House' with Mörda and the Soweto Gospel Choir Two musical powerhouses are coming together for a musical spectacle in Joburg this weekend. This concert will see a collaboration between the three-time Grammy Award-winner, the Soweto Gospel Choir's 'History of House', as well as the Grammy-nominated Mörda, whose real name is Bongani Mohosana. It is expected to fuse the choir's emotional depth with the 'Horns in the Sun' hitmaker's Afro-futuristic sound. Attendees are also urged to bring something to donate to the Nelson Mandela Foundation as part of Mandela Day festivities. Where: The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino. When: Friday, July 18, from 8pm.
Time Out
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Mandela Day events in Johannesburg
On July 18, each year, the world honours the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela - a man who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of others. In South Africa, he campaigned for the equality of all people, regardless of their race, gender, or social position. His courage, determination, love, and sacrifice, along with those of other struggle veterans, have led to peace in South Africa. On Mandela Day, individuals are urged to perform 67 minutes of community service in honour of the 67 years that the former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner fought for social justice. We have put together a list of Mandela Day events around Gauteng: The Nelson Mandela Foundation and Bassline Fest are hosting a concert at Gold Reef City honouring the legend. The event will bring together the community to reflect on the impact Mandela made. It will feature performances from the Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir, MÖRDA and other artists. There will be a special live tribute to uTata. It takes place on Friday, July 18, from 8 PM at the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City. Mandela Day Walk & Run event in Sandton Make your steps count - walk and run for a good cause this Mandela Day. BP Southern Africa, Balwin Properties and Mahindra have teamed up to bring the annual Mandela Day Walk & Run event. The walk or run symbolises unity against poverty and inequity, and proceeds will go to the Nelson Mandela Foundation. This year's event occurs at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Sandton on Saturday, 19 July. 21km - start time 07:30 10km - start time 07:30 5km - start time 07:45 Race fees 5km = R100 10km = R150 21km = R200 All finishers will receive a medal. Register here. Rise Against Hunger Africa Mandela event at Mall of Africa Rise Against Hunger Africa will honour Mandela's life by hosting events in different parts of the country. The organisation fights food insecurity by providing nutritious meals to the less fortunate. The public can help make a difference by joining the several Mandela Day events around the country. The Gauteng event is held at the Mall of Africa in Midrand. The organisation welcomes donations, volunteers who can join a meal-packing event or spread the word and inspire others to take action. 67 Blankets for Mandela Day at Bedford Keep someone warm this winter by participating in the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day event. Join other locals at Bedford who are making the blankets from 9-15 July. You can participate in the event by bringing a blanket or buying wool. The Edenvale Knitwits will also offer free lessons for those who want to knit or crochet blankets. The Apartheid Museum The Apartheid Museum has partnered with the TourVest Destinations for a Mandela Day Drive. They will be donating to Crown Mines Primary School, an under-resourced school in the south of Johannesburg. Members of the public can join in the drive by: • Donating essential items at the main entrance to the Apartheid Museum throughout July. • Joining the Apartheid Museum and TourVest Destinations on Mandela Day & volunteer their time and skills. • Making a cash donation.
