Celebrating Nelson Mandela’s Fight for a Better World

Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president and the country’s first black leader, died in December 2013 at the age of 95.

To recognize his contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, his birth anniversary is celebrated on 18th July as International Day.

Nelson Mandela has also been popular by the name “Madiba”, which was his family name.

He fought a long battle against the apartheid system in South Africa and for the equality and freedom of all people.

fight for a better world

UN General Assembly President Abdullah Shahid recalled that Nelson Mandela also advocated for democracy, gender equality, rights of children and youth, and protection of the environment.

He said, “Madiba’s fight for a better world was actually a fight for a better world, in which freedom, justice and dignity of all people were respected. Throughout his life he called for peace, social justice, equality and human understanding.

Prince Harry: Celebrate Mandela’s legacy every day

In a keynote address on the day, Britain’s Duke of Sussex Prince Harry said that Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy should be celebrated every day, as recent generations may not be aware of his leadership.

He said, “Come, let us tell our children about the lesson for which they raised their voices. Let us recognize our common ground, galvanize people to reassert our claim on our democracies, and draw upon the torch of Nelson Mandela’s memory to light the way forward.”

Prince Harry attended the event with his wife, the Duchess of Sussex – Megan.

Sharing a memory, he said that he treasures the photograph of his late mother Diana – Princess of Wales and Nelson Mandela which was given to him by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who was also an anti-apartheid leader. Desmond Tutu passed away in December 2021.

Prince Harry pointed out that Nelson Mandela, in that photo, continues to shine in a towering stature, even after witnessing the worst of humanity, virulent apartheid and state-sponsored brutality, and after spending 27 years in prison.

Inspiration Amidst Uncertainty

Prince Harry said Nelson Mandela could still see the good in humanity, not because he was blind to the ugliness and injustices of the world, but because he knew he would overcome them.

He also talked about the special connection he has with Africa, saying he has always found hope there.

The lessons of Nelson Mandela

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohamed delivered a speech on behalf of the UN chief, urging people to honor Nelson Mandela’s legacy by speaking out against hate and standing up for human rights, in her message on the International Day. encouraged for.

The UN Deputy Chief speaking for himself said that Nelson Mandela has inspired him to choose his own path in his life from a young age.

He said, “I have taken to heart his eloquent lesson that we all have the power and the responsibility – to take action. And also that no one is our own or a stranger. We are all in this together, with a shared responsibility on our shoulders to preserve a common home and also to stand in solidarity with each other.”