Nelson Mandela International Day - 18 July 2024

Tags: Important Days

Nelson Mandela International Day is observed annually on July 18 to honor Nelson Mandela, the first black president of South Africa.

An Overview of the News

• Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected president on May 10, 1994, and is celebrated as the 'Father of the Nation.'

Theme for 2024:‘Combating poverty and inequality is in our hands.’

• Objective: Emphasizes collective responsibility in addressing poverty and inequality.

Background of Nelson Mandela

• Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years for his fight against the apartheid regime, with 18 of those years spent on Robben Island.

• Mandela was released in 1990 and dedicated his efforts to ending racism, leading to his election as president in 1994.

• His presidency focused on reconciliation, healing, and promoting equality, uniting South Africa.

History of the Day

• Nelson Mandela International Day was established by the United Nations in 2009 to commemorate his life and work.

• Thefirst observance of Nelson Mandela International Day took place on July 18, 2010.