By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
In recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, UN General Assembly declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela International Day”.
Resolution A/RES/64/13 recognizes Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity in: conflict resolution; race relations; promotion and protection of human rights; reconciliation; gender equality and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups; the fight against poverty; the promotion of social justice.
Dr Naledi Pandor, Chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation gave a keynote speech at the UN to mark International Nelson Mandela Day.
“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”.
Pandor reflected on Mandela’s life, his values, and the kind of world he fought for; one where justice, dignity, and shared humanity guide our actions.
She highlighted Mandela’s legacy of “good trouble” and encouraged action to reform and strengthen global institutions like the UN.
“Mandela was a troublemaker. The kind of good troublemaker that we need more of in the world today,” said Pandor. “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.”
Pandor urged United Nations leaders to emulate Mandela’s activism for justice and equality.
She also paid tribute to the UN Special Committee Against Apartheid, whose work was instrumental in South Africa’s liberation, and celebrated the 2025 recipients of the United Nations Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize, Brenda Reynolds and Kennedy Odede, as modern-day champions of justice.
As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, Pandor called for a reformed and more democratic UN, capable of leading the charge for global equity in the decades to come.
“Let us leave here reminded of the work that each of us is called to contribute to,” she concluded. “May the memory of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela keep inspiring all of us to do the work of transformation, and to never give up on his dream of a just society and a just world.”
Watch Live in the video below:
Video Courtesy of UN.