The 92nd birthday of Tata Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela on Sunday, 18 July was humbly celebrated with elderly people and orphaned children who were treated to a feast of activities by a delegation led by Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele and the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality.
Minister Ndebele started his Mandela Day programme at the Elizabeth Stuurman and Adcock Homes in Schauderville where he joined Nelson Mandela Bay municipality councillors, mayoral committee members and officials in a thorough clean-up of the grounds.
The Minister also handed over clothing to the residents of the old-age home.
Minister Ndebele said he could not think of a more appropriate way to celebrate Mandela Day than helping the elderly people.
"It is such a fulfilling experience to give back to the community. We should all learn to dedicate 67 minutes once a year to helping others. We must all make an effort to honour Nelson Mandela by serving those in need," he said.
Old age home resident, Crystal Trotter, said she was pleased to see the Madiba magic in action.
"We are very happy to see our homes being cleaned. We wish that this could take place every day. I hope that Nelson Mandela lives for many more years to come because his life has had a positive influence on all the people of this country," she said.
Minister Ndebele went on to spend time with orphaned children at the Qaqawuli Godolozi crèche in Motherwell. Here he planted a tree to represent hope, and handed out South African flag inspired beanies and scarves to the children.
Minister Ndebele also educated the children about what the different colours of the South African flag represent, and focused on the red that represents the bloodshed in the struggle for the freedom of the country.
He also explained to the children the history of Nelson Mandela, and the years he spent in jail as a result of the fight for freedom.
The last stop of Mandela Day was at the music festival at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Missionvale campus. Here National Acts MXO, Camagwini, Lulu Dikana, and Zonke as well as local artists entertained crowds that gathered to celebrate Mandela Day.
