South Africans and the international community have been urged to participate in international Nelson Mandela day on Thursday.
As the elder statesman turns 95, the hope is for all to do good through acts of kindness and goodwill in contributing to the 67 minutes campaign – that’s one minute for each year of Madiba’s life spent in service of humanity, seeking change.

In November, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly passed a consensus resolution declaring July the 18th – that day he was born – Nelson Mandela International Day.

The resolution, co-sponsored by 165 countries, recognized the values and the dedication of Madiba to the service of humanity, and designated the day’s observance each July beginning in 2010.

The Mandela Centre of Memory already started their act of goodwill in the oldest township – Alexander. The CEO of Mandela Memory Centre, Sello Hatang says: “It’s more about responding to the needs that are out there. Ensuring that we respond to Madiba’s call that says it’s not just about Madiba generation, but younger generation must be activists in the communities. It’s not only about giving; it’s for people who receive to also pass forward.”

Madiba is spending a fifth week in hospital receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection. Outside the Pretoria hospital where Madiba is receiving treatment, birthday celebrations started early. Well wishes continue to pour in and with the elder statesman’s birthday on Thursday, the tribute wall is expected to grow even bigger with birthday messages.

ANC veterans came a day early to be among the first to wish Madiba a happy birthday. ANC veteran Joe Motsoahae says: “Madiba is likely to spend another day in hospital. But throngs of people are expected to bring the party to the steps of this hospital and wish Madiba a very happy birthday.”

The hospital says it will invite 50 children from a nearby informal settlement to spend the day with staff who will honour the world icons’ legacy by spending time with the less fortunate.

Capetonians have also been urged to come out in their thousands tomorrow to form a human chain as part of the 67 minutes campaign. Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, Thabo Makgoba says: “The Human Chain will try to say we are one and we embody Madiba’s values of unity even if those communities are so diverse and divided.”

Science and Technology Minister, Derek Hanekom has donated his 67 minutes to three pre-schools in Paterson in the Eastern Cape.
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