Ramaphosa Urges South Africans to Serve the Needy on Mandela Day

Cape Town, The Gulf Observer: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens to dedicate this year’s Nelson Mandela International Day to meaningful acts of service, encouraging people to support the country’s most vulnerable through compassion, volunteerism, and community engagement.

In his weekly newsletter ahead of Mandela Day, observed annually on July 18 to commemorate the birthday of the late President Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa urged South Africans to devote their symbolic 67 minutes of service to helping those in need by feeding the hungry, comforting the lonely, assisting the elderly, and volunteering with community organizations.

The President said such acts of kindness reflect Mandela’s lifelong commitment to justice and social equality, stressing that overcoming poverty is not an act of charity but an act of justice. He emphasized that even small contributions of time and effort can make a significant difference in improving lives and strengthening communities.

Ramaphosa noted that Mandela Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to build a more caring and inclusive society. He encouraged South Africans to use the occasion to foster hope, dignity, and solidarity, particularly for those facing hardship.

Mandela Day, recognized internationally each year on July 18, celebrates the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela and inspires people around the world to contribute positively to their communities through volunteer service.